According to the Times, Chelsea have added Leeds United midfielder Tyler Adams to their transfer wishlist as they attempt to strengthen their midfield this summer.
The Blues have so far been unsuccessful in their pursuit of Brighton’s Moises Caicedo, but Mauricio Pochettino is also looking to add depth and experience to his team, particularly in the midfield, with Adams one of the potential alternatives.
As previously reported by the Athletic’s Phil Hay, Adams, now 24, has a relegation release clause in his contract, which means he is available for a sum of about £20 million 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.
