Chelsea defender ‘back’ on Dortmund’s radar as Barcelona starlet ‘eyed’

The new Premier League season is fast approaching, and Chelsea are gearing up for their opening game against Crystal Palace on Sunday.

Enzo Maresca’s side have enjoyed a productive summer, becoming FIFA Club World Cup champions last month after beating Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain in the final. They have also completed several new signings, including Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, and Jamie Gittens.

However, the summer is far from over, and there is still plenty of business for Chelsea to do, both in terms of incomings and outgoings. With just under three weeks remaining until the transfer deadline, a lot could still happen.

Here, football.london takes a look at the latest transfer news and rumours involving Chelsea.

Chelsea defender ‘back’ on Dortmund’s radar

Borussia Dortmund have reportedly renewed their interest in Chelsea defender Renato Veiga, according to the latest reports. Sky in Germany claim the Bundesliga side have revived their pursuit of the Portugal international following an injury to Niklas Sule.

The report adds that Veiga was close to joining Dortmund last season, but instead completed a loan move to Serie A giants Juventus. With defensive concerns now mounting at Dortmund, a move could once again be pursued before the deadline.

However, Juventus may also attempt to bring Veiga back following a positive loan spell during the second half of last season. The 22-year-old made 15 appearances across all competitions after joining in January.

football.london says: Dortmund would certainly be a strong destination for Veiga, whether on a permanent basis or another loan. If wider reports are to be believed, he isn’t in Maresca’s plans for the new season, even with Levi Colwill sidelined through an ACL injury. Whether Dortmund or Juventus firm up their interest remains to be seen.

Barcelona starlet ‘eyed’

Elsewhere, Chelsea have been named as a surprise suitor for Barcelona starlet Fermin Lopez, according to the latest rumours from Spain. Diario AS claims Manchester United, Chelsea, and clubs in Saudi Arabia have recently enquired about the 22-year-old’s availability.

There have been conflicting reports in Spain regarding the attacker’s future, with some suggesting Barcelona view him as untouchable. However, given the Catalan club’s well-documented financial troubles, speculation around a possible exit continues.

football.london says: This one feels a little far-fetched, to be honest. Prising top young talents away from Barcelona is rarely straightforward and often a non-starter. Chelsea’s ongoing interest in players like Xavi Simons and Alejandro Garnacho also makes this move seem unlikely, as there would simply be no room in the squad for Lopez, even if he were available.