Tom Weber
Tom Weber
Updated: 3 Dec 2024 11:14 GMT
3 min read
Enzo Maresca, Chelsea, 2024/25
© IMAGO
Chelsea are among the clubs interested in Abdukodir Khusanov, according to French media.
The RC Lens defender has been nothing short of a major revelation for the French side. At 20 years of age, Khusanov looks as if he has starred in Ligue 1 for years.
Lens' star centre-back Kevin Danso has had to deal with a heart problem this year, which prompted coach Will Still to look to Khusanov as a solution and it's fair to say that the Uzbekistan international has grasped his opportunity with both hands.
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Khusanov has been one of the best centre-backs in the French top flight this season and has been hailed by Still and his teammates as the ideal modern defender.
“Kodir is very, very fast. He’s an athlete,” the coach said. “We joked that when he went to the Olympics, he could have done all sports with Uzbekistan he’s so complete!”
Abdukodir Khusanov
© IMAGO - Abdukodir Khusanov
Chelsea eye Khusanov
Unsurprisingly, then, Khusanov's name has become increasingly familiar to sporting directors and scouting departments around Europe. Even less surprising is the fact that, according to Le10Sport, Chelsea have begun taking an interest in the 20-year-old.
The Blues are known to be in the market for a centre-back and Khusanov fits the profile of player Chelsea are looking for in terms of his age and potential. The centre-back is said to be valued at €20 million by Lens.
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A potential problem for Chelsea is that they are far from the only side with an interest in him. London rivals Tottenham are also associated with the Uzbek, while PSG are keen on him to replace Milan Skriniar who is expected to leave the club in January.
Ligue 1 has been one of Chelsea's favourite hunting grounds in recent years and Khusanov looks like he could be the next prospect to trade France for west London.