Chelsea join Man Utd in race to sign £21m defender

Chelsea are set to go head-to-head with Manchester United to sign Inter Milan defender Denzel Dumfries this summer.

The Blues are looking to bolster their backline ahead of next season and the Dutchman’s versatility in different formations appeals to Thomas Tuchel.

Meanwhile, reports suggest that Erik ten Hag wants to bring Dumfries to Old Trafford after being impressed with his form in Serie A since his move from PSV Eindhoven last year.

However, according to La Gazetta dello Sport, Chelsea have expressed an interest in the 26-year-old and could make a £21million bid.

The report goes on to say that the west London side’s move for Dumfries, who is valued at £34m by Inter, will be helped with talks already underway between the two clubs over Romelu Lukaku.

Since signing for the Italian giants, Dumfries has made 33 appearances in Serie A.

Last season, he won the Italian cup and the equivalent of the Community Shield -the Supercoppa Italiana.

United are believed to be keen on signing the wing back with Aaron Wan-Bissaka having struggled last season before eventually losing his starting place in the team.

Meanwhile, Chelsea need another full-back with Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso heavily linked with moves to Barcelona.

Speaking earlier this year, Dumfries expressed his joy since joining Inter and revealed that he idolises the club’s former star Maicon.

He said: ‘Scoring versus Roma was a watershed personally, but I will never forget the Supercoppa, which was my first major trophy. I do not like to think I am replacing Achraf Hakimi, as we are different.

‘Inter have had incredible players on the right flank. The first one that comes to mind is Maicon, who is an example. I would like to get as close as possible to