Chelsea have “held multiple discussions” about signing Southampton right-back Kyle Walker-Peters, according to The Guardian‘s Jacob Steinberg.

The reliable journalist claims the Blues have identified the England international as an alternative to Inter Milan’s Denzel Dumfries, with the player likely to be available for around £35m to £40m:

Story on Chelsea targeting Southampton defender Kyle Walker-Peters https://t.co/mjkykGRsUu with @FabrizioRomano #cfc

— Jacob Steinberg (@JacobSteinberg) August 2, 2022

Walker-Peters was signed by Southampton from Tottenham for £12m two years ago, and Spurs do reportedly have a buyback option on the player worth £30m. Antonio Conte’s side are, however, unlikely to trigger it after recruiting Djed Spence from Middlesbrough this summer.

Manchester United have also been credited with an interest in the Saints fullback, but they are believed to be focused on reinforcing other areas of their squad at the moment.

If Chelsea do prioritise Walker-Peters over a deal for Dumfries, they should have a clear run to secure his signature. We shall have to wait and see whether they make a formal approach.