Chelsea join Manchester United and Barcelona in race for Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard
Premier League rivals Chelsea have joined Manchester United and Barcelona in the race to acquire the services of Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard, according to Bild via Sport Witness (h/t Mirror).
The France international is ‘flirting’ with the idea of leaving the Bundesliga giants in the upcoming transfer window. Earlier in the season, the full-back was keen on starting a new chapter in his career.
But the 27-year-old has held talks with the Bavarians’ sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic. The German outfit are keen on keeping a hold of him and want to extend the World Cup winner’s contract beyond the summer of 2024.
Apart from the Blues, the Red Devils have also been linked with Pavard. Also, Inter Milan have the defender on their radar, while the Blaugrana are leading the race to get a hold of his signature.
Chelsea have one of the best right-backs in England in Reece James. However, the England international has been injury prone over the last few months. Cesar Azpilicueta has left a lot to be desired when he has been called upon this season.
As for United, Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka are at Erik ten Hag’s disposal for the right-hand side of the defence. The Portuguese was the gaffer’s first choice in the first half of the campaign.
However, the former Crystal Palace star has made his way into the Dutch manager’s plans over the last few weeks. But it remains to be seen whether the English national will opt to leave the club for regular minutes elsewhere next summer.
Pavard is a versatile player. Apart from playing at right-back, the French national is also capable of being deployed in the central defensive position.
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United could kill two birds with one stone with the addition of the 27-year-old. It would not be a surprise to see Harry Maguire or Victor Lindelof depart in the coming months after losing their place in the starting lineup under Ten Hag. But will the Bayern defender join the Manchester-based club? Only time will tell.
