• Transfer news

Chelsea prefer selling Jorginho over Kante

Jorginho, Chelsea
Getty Images
Advertisement

Chelsea are reportedly keen to offload Jorginho and keep N’Golo Kante amid Inter Milan’s efforts to land the Frenchman.

Jorginho joined Chelsea from Napoli in a deal worth £50m plus bonuses two years ago. It was Maurizio Sarri who insisted on the Italian’s signing back then.

However, with Sarri now gone, the 28-year-old’s future at Stamford Bridge is brought into question.

The Italian manager reportedly tried to reunite with Jorginho at Juventus last winter. He proposed a swap deal involving Miralem Pjanic, but his efforts came to no avail.

Instead, the Bianconeri sacked Sarri earlier in the summer and set other transfer priorities. With Juve’s interest vanished, Jorginho will have to fancy his chances under Frank Lampard next season.

Jorginho’s agent Joao Santos, his client was interested in returning to Serie A. According to the entourage, Chelsea were reluctant to discuss the sale at the time.

“Juventus had offered a swap deal including Miralem Pjanic, but the English side didn’t take it into consideration,” he said, as relayed by the Express Sport.

“[Juve sporting director Fabio] Paratici never called me. Would he have moved to Juventus with Sarri? I think so.”

Santos now confirms Jorginho will fight for a place in Lampard’s starting eleven next season. However, he refuses to rule out the possibility of taking his client away before the deadline passes.

“He has a three-year deal with Chelsea. The market is long – it will last until October 5,” he added.

“If Chelsea were to think that he is no longer part of the project, I would find an alternative solution.

“Last year he played 40 games for Chelsea and is an important member of the national team.

“So far, we haven’t received any official offers. He is followed by many clubs, and there aren’t many players with his characteristics in that role.”

Santos’ statement coincided with the news of Inter Milan’s recent approach for N’Golo Kante.

The Nerazzurri reportedly offered a swap deal, including Marcelo Brozovic, to Chelsea. But, the Blues still hold a grudge against Antonio Conte.

Therefore, Inter’s attempt to prize the Frenchman away fell flat.

x