Exclusive: Fabrizio Romano responds to Chelsea transfer links with two left-backs

Chelsea have been linked with two top left-backs in the form of Wolves star Rayan Ait-Nouri and Brest youngster Bradley Locko, but Fabrizio Romano has played down those transfer rumours for the time being.

The Blues are set to be in the market for a new left-back this summer, according to Romano, but he insists it’s still something at an early stage, with no specific names to report on just yet.

Speaking exclusively to CaughtOffside for the latest edition of his Daily Briefing column, Romano made it clear that Chelsea will be exploring this particular market, but he’s not convinced by the links with Ait-Nouri and Locko in particular, as it’s still not clear who the west Londoners will be prioritising for that position.

Ait-Nouri has impressed in the Premier League in recent times so could undoubtedly be a fine choice for Chelsea, but it remains to be seen if they’ll move for him, so fans will have to be a bit patient before learning any more concrete updates.

Ait-Nouri transfer: Chelsea links cleared up by Fabrizio Romano

“As recently reported, Chelsea are keen to explore the left-backs market for the summer transfer window, most likely for a top young talent in that position, and so it’s inevitable that we’re going to be hearing a lot of names linked with the Blues in the weeks ahead,” Romano said.

“I’ve seen some reports about the likes of Rayan Ait-Nouri at Wolves, and also talented young Brest left-back Bradley Locko, but it’s still early to know specific names, as far as I understand.

“It is true that Chelsea are looking for left-backs, but we’re going to hear a lot of names and I don’t like to add too much speculation, just report the facts, so let’s see what they decide as it’s still only the early stage of discussions and I’m not aware of a preferred player that they’re targeting for that role as of yet.”

CFC have not had the best season and it perhaps makes sense that they’re looking at the likes of Ben Chilwell and Marc Cucurella as players who could be improved on for next term.