Chelsea are reportedly keeping a close eye on Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov, as per Caught Offside.
After coming through Bunyodkor’s youth system, the 22-year-old has enjoyed a meteoric rise. Initially, he joined Belarusian side Energetik-BGU in 2022.
Having been attracted by his performances in Vysshaya Liga, Ligue 1 side RC Lens purchased him the following year. Khusanov caught the Citizens’ attention with his performances in the French top-flight and Man City ultimately decided to purchase him last year.
However, the youngster has been featuring as a rotational option at the Emirates Stadium. Still, he has helped his side win a couple of domestic cup competitions.
Having proven his worth in club football, Khusanov has established himself as an undisputed starter in the Uzbekistan national team’s starting line-up.
Now, Caught Offside claim that after struggling with defensive frailties during the early stages of this season, Chelsea are considering reinforcing the backline in January.
The Blues have earmarked Khusanov as a serious option following his struggles to break into Man City’s starting XI. They have been monitoring his situation closely before making a potential swoop.
Khusanov to Chelsea
The report state that apart from the West London club, three other Premier League clubs are also interested in signing the Uzbekistan international next year.
The youngster is valued at around £43m by Transfermarkt and still has a contract until 2031. Therefore, Enzo Maresca’s side aren’t in any rush to sell him.
Khusanov is a 6ft 1in tall right-footed centre-back but is also comfortable in the right-back position. He is extremely quick, can play out from the back and is efficient in defensive contributions.
Khusanov is a talented player and has shown glimpses of his high potential in recent years. So, he would be a shrewd acquisition for Chelsea should they purchase him.
However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the West London club eventually make a concrete approach to secure his services in the upcoming winter transfer window.
Meanwhile, Chelsea started the new season with back-to-back victories over Fulham and Brighton and Hove Albion but accumulated only one point from the last three Premier League games before the international break.
Other News
