Chelsea transfer news: Blues target Nikola Maksimovic refuses to train with Torino

Nikola Maksimovic: Chelsea calling?

Chelsea are again reportedly scouting the Serie A to add depth to their backline. The Blues have been linked with a number of defenders this summer with Serie A pair Kalidou Koulibaly and Stefan de Vrij being prominent names linked to a move to Stamford Bridge. However, in the wake of recent happenings, the Blues might now be looking to Turin to land their desired defender.

Torino’s relationship with their Nikola Maksimovic might now be beyond repair after the defender stayed away from pre-season training with the Serie A team and returned to his native Serbia without informing the club hierarchy. Maksimovic has been linked with a move away from the Italian side might now finally be sold after his coach, Sinisa Mihajlovic, in an interaction with the media said he has lost faith in the defender.  

“Nikola did not present himself to training on Friday and he did not advise anyone of his decision,” said Mihajlovic. “It was a surprise for everyone.

“This is a sour event because he has shown a lack of respect towards the club that pays him, as well as his teammates and the fans.

“He must now accept responsibility for his actions and the hierarchy must take a hard line with him. Then we will see what happens.”

Chelsea and Napoli have recently been rumoured to have turned an admiring eye towards the defender with both teams looking to rebuild at the start of their new campaign. And the Serbian’s clear intentions to force a move away from Turin have further added to their desires.

While Napoli will look to challenge for the Serie A challenge after coming second last time round, Chelsea will look to rebuild their identity under new coach Antonio Conte after having a dismal season last time around finishing a lowly 10th. 

The Blues have been looking to add to their defence as John Terry and Gary Cahill head towards the wrong side of the 30s. Chelsea have been linked with a whole host of defenders and especially Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly. However, that link seems to have gone cold after the two clubs seemingly failed to agree to a price for the defender. 

With Kurt Zouma also out till new year, the Blues will be looking to add depth to their backline. However, the Blues will have big competition if they are serious about bringing the Serbian to Stamford Bridge.

Torino have already received a €26 million bid from the Partenopei, although it remains to be seen if they will now alter their previous reluctance to sell, as the footballing outcast may now have a negative impact on the dressing room.