Juventus chief hints at Matthijs de Ligt exit amid Chelsea links

Since moving to Turin in a £67.5m transfer in 2019, the defender has held down a regular spot in the middle of the backline, making a total of 117 appearances in all competitions.

However, with two years remaining on his contract, speculation has naturally emerged as to whether the Netherlands international sees his long-term future at his current employers.

Earlier this month, De Ligt spoke openly about the scenario, telling NOS: "Talks are being held and, when the time comes, I will decide whether I will extend or whether I want to look elsewhere."

From the latest comments of Arrivabene, it appears that the 22-year-old may be angling for a new challenge over extending his contract at Juventus.

Arrivabene told Tuttosport: "It's impossible to keep players when they want to leave the club - but all the three parties in the negotiations have to be satisfied."

Those words come at a time when Chelsea have been heavily linked with an approach for De Ligt as head coach Thomas Tuchel attempts to strengthen in defence.

With Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger having already departed on free transfers, Tuchel is looking to sign two new central-backs.

However, Chelsea have no intention of paying De Ligt's release clause of £102m, allegedly resulting in the relevant parties trying to iron out a player-plus-cash proposal.

Christian Pulisic and Timo Werner are said to have been put forward as options for Juventus, although reports have been conflicting with regards to whether Massimiliano Allegri is open to signing either of the pair.

While Juventus have been linked with an approach for Chelsea midfielder Jorginho, the Blues are not thought to be considering including the Italy international for this particular deal.

Chelsea have alternatives on their shortlist if they are unable to successfully negotiate a compromise with Jules Kounde also on their radar.

That said, it was claimed earlier this week that Sevilla were ready to raise the France international's asking price if a deal is not agreed within the next week.

Chelsea's interest in Nathan Ake is perceived to be separate from De Ligt and Kounde with the Manchester City better equipped to play on the left-hand side of a back three.