Chelsea transfer news as Leeds United star Tyler Adams now on shortlist
Chelsea have added Leeds United star Tyler Adams to their transfer shortlist as they look to reinforce their midfield this summer, according to the Times.
The Blues have been unsuccessful so far in their pursuit of Brighton’s Moises Caicedo, but Mauricio Pochettino is also hoping to add depth and experience to his squad, especially in the middle of the park, with Adams one of the potential options.
Adams who is now 24, has a relegation release clause in his contract, as previously reported by the Athletic’s Phil Hay, meaning that he is available for a fee of around £20m following the Whites’ relegation last season.
Discussing the potential targets at Chelsea’s disposal, the Times write: “Chelsea are pulling together a shortlist of transfer targets in order to bolster Mauricio Pochettino’s limited midfielder options.
“Chelsea want to add more depth and experience in midfield and are considering other targets, with Leeds United’s Tyler Adams and Ajax’s Edson Alverez under consideration. They are also looking at Gabri Veiga, the Spanish midfielder at Celta Vigo.”
“Adams, 24, is captain of the United States Men’s National Team and is believed to have a relegation clause in his contract, which became active when Leeds dropped into the Sky Bet Championship at the end of last season.”
Delaying the inevitable
Now that word is out about Adams’ release clause, it feels more and more likely that he won’t be at Elland Road beyond this month, with clubs circling and waiting to act on their interest as quickly as possible.
There is quite a good chance that the only reason he still remains in Yorkshire at the moment is the hamstring injury he sustained last season that has ruled him out of a lot of pre-season and will likely see him miss the season opener.
Adams’ quality is well-known and his position as USMNT captain will have him in the shop window, especially with Chelsea’s new owners being American, he will be viewed as a sensible target at the cut price.
Leeds were one of many clubs interested 12 months ago and for a similar fee, he will likely be subject of plenty of interest again this transfer window. However, a move to Stamford Bridge would likely not guarantee regular football, especially if Caicedo does finally make the switch.
Whether or not this deal goes any further than Adams making the Blues’ shortlist remains to be seen, but either way it feels as though his future may lie away from Elland Road.
In other Leeds United news, the transfer chiefs at Elland Road have identified two targets in defence as they look to strengten