Chelsea are considering a stunning triple swoop from title rivals Manchester City, with the Blues adding Oleksandr Zinchenko to their transfer wishlist.
It has previously been reported that Thomas Tuchel’s side are keen to sign Raheem Sterling and defender Nathan Ake from the reigning Premier League champions.
It’s uncertain whether the Blues would push ahead to try and sign all three players due to the likely expense involved of signing them from one of their title rivals.
Owner Todd Boehly and Tuchel have discussed the possibility of signing the trio, though it could prove tough to persuade Pep Guardiola’s side to strengthen one of their challengers by allowing all three to make the jump to Stamford Bridge.
The Blues have already made a formal approach to Manchester City for the signing of £55million-rated England international Sterling, with a view to wrapping up the deal by the end of the week.
It has also been reported by the Telegraph that owner Boehly has requested a valuation for Ake, with the Blues keen to strengthen their defensive options after the departures of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.
Zinchenko, meanwhile, also has interest from Everton and West Ham, but the funds are not as readily available at those clubs.
The Athletic reported on Saturday that Everton must balance their books by June 30 to come in line with FFP.
Despite avoiding relegation last season, Everton’s financial situation is said to remain precarious and the club might have to raise capital through player sales.
Zinchenko could be allowed to depart, with City pursuing a move for £50m-rated Brighton full-back Marc Cucurella.
Zinchenko joined City back in 2016 for a fee believed to be around £1.6m and he has since gone on to make 128 appearances for the club.
He has been part of four Premier League title-winning teams, and made 28 appearances in all competitions as Guardiola’s side edged out Liverpool to retain the title last season.
There would be no rush to let the 25-year-old leave the Etihad Stadium, with his contract expiring in the summer of 2024.