Chelsea are reportedly ready to rival Tottenham for Bournemouth defender Adam Smith as it’s claimed they sent scouts to watch him last weekend.
The 26-year-old has been an almost ever-present for the Cherries this season, making 34 Premier League appearances as he’s played a key role in helping Eddie Howe’s side preserve their top-flight status for another year.
However, according to The Sun, they could come under pressure to keep him this summer with Chelsea now potentially rivalling Tottenham for his signature after reportedly sending a scout to watch him against Stoke City last weekend and they will do so again for the clash with Burnley on Saturday.
As noted in the report, Smith had been touted as a possible replacement for Kyle Walker at Spurs this summer given the England international has been linked with a move elsewhere in recent weeks with claims of unrest at White Hart Lane.
Tottenham know Smith well given that he came through their youth ranks, but he failed to make the cut at senior level as he was sent out on seven different loan spells before eventually leaving for Bournemouth in 2014.
Pochettino has seen Kieran Trippier impress while Walker has had his reported troubles off the pitch and has lost his place in some big games over the past month, but if the defensive stalwart was to leave, then a replacement would undoubtedly be needed.
Spurs will look to compete on various fronts again next season and they’ll need a deep squad to do that. It’s a similar situation for Chelsea ahead of their return to the Champions League, and Antonio Conte will certainly be looking to strengthen his defence with cover for the likes of Cesar Azpilicueta and Victor Moses on the right side.