Chelsea express interest in Athletic Bilbao defender

Amid the ongoing January transfer window, Mauricio Pochettino-led Chelsea side have expressed their interest in signing Aitor Paredes from Athletic Bilbao.

The Sun which has reported interest from two other big clubs in Paredes, made this known.

According to the report, Chelsea have scouted Paredes seven times and were impressed by his performance.

The Blues are said to have requested the transfer fee they need to pay for the defender.

However, the La Liga club are not keen to set a price, although The Sun claims that the centre-back could be available for £20 million.

“Chelsea value Paredes’ ability to pass the ball out from the back alongside his strong athletic profile,” states the report in The Sun.

“The player is known for both his strength and recovery pace and looks set to earn a call-up to the Spanish national team for the upcoming Euros.”

Chelsea, will, however, face stiff competition from Real Madrid and Inter Milan who have also shown interest to sign the defender.