After confirmation that Barcelona’s offer for Juventus superstar Paul Pogba has been rejected, Chelsea may feel they still have a chance to sign the midfield powerhouse.
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The Pensioners could use Juve’s reported interest in several of their players in order to snare the French international at a cut price, while also offloading some of their dead wood in the process.
Would the Bianconeri warm to the idea of losing Pogba if it meant they secured one or two of the Blues’ international stars?
In this feature we present five candidates for Chelsea/Juventus player exchange.
Filipe Luis
Filipe Luis has endured a desperate season since swapping Atletico Madrid for Chelsea last summer. The Brazil international has been a peripheral figure—finding himself stuck behind Cesar Azpilicueta in the left-back hierarchy—and has been linked with a move away from the club.
Diego Simeone is understood to be keen on bringing him back to the Vicente Calderon, but might Juve be interested in a potential successor for Patrice Evra?
John Obi Mikel
John Obi Mikel looks set for a departure from Stamford Bridge this summer, with both Fenerbahce and Al Ain of the United Arab Emirates believed to be keen on his signature.
The Nigerian may have fallen (far) behind Nemanja Matic and Cesc Fabregas in the pecking order at Chelsea, but he is an experienced campaigner who could enforce the midfield should Paul Pogba and/or Arturo Vidal follow Andrea Pirlo out of the club.
Willian
Massimiliano Allegri is understood to be big admirer of the hard-working Willian, and sees the Brazil international as an ideal option to help Juventus keep their momentum at the top of the Serie A table.
The 26-year-old is a key man for Chelsea, and Mourinho may be loathe to see him go, but the Selecao midfielder—who arrived for £32 million two years ago—could be considered expendable if it would help the Blues secure Pogba.
Oscar
Another Brazilian who Allegri would love to bring to Turin is playmaker Oscar, with the Italian coach making clear his admiration for the attacking midfielder.
The 23-year-old may not be keen on a departure from Stamford Bridge, but he has had a hot-and-cold relationship with Jose Mourinho and could be ushered towards the exit door if the opportunity arises.
Mohamed Salah
Perhaps the Chelsea player most heavily linked with a move to Italy this summer is Mohamed Salah.
The former FC Basel man has flopped at Stamford Bridge, but reaffirmed his class at Fiorentina on loan last season.
His switch as prompted interest from other Italian sides; Inter Milan have been linked with his signature, while Juventus have also noted that they are keeping tabs on the forward.