Chelsea ‘closing in’ on Lewis Dunk transfer but Brighton star is also wanted by Tottenham

Chelsea are set to beat Tottenham to the signing of Lewis Dunk, according to reports.

The Blues are leading the race for the Brighton centre-back as they attempt to improve their defensive unit ahead of the 2020/21 Premier League season.

The west London side may have qualified for the Champions League last season by finishing fourth but their leaky defence almost cost them their spot in the top four.

Ben Chilwell has been the player heavily linked with a transfer and it’s believed a £60million deal, with add-ons, could be close.

Now, though, The Sun are reporting Dunk could join Chelsea in a switch worth £40m as Frank Lampard seeks further reinforcements for his beleaguered backline.

And they suggest the player, who is a lifelong Blues fan, reckons he’s on his way to Stamford Bridge.

Tottenham also have their eyes on the players but it would appear his loyalties hand Chelsea the advantage.

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Former Chelsea star Cascarino is adamant landing Dunk would be a great deal for the club and feels many aren’t appreciative of his qualities at the back.

“He’s not just a brute that wins headers. He’s a fine footballer,” he remarked about the Brighton star.

“If you said to me, of the bottom half of the table who I think is the very best centre-half, I think it’s him.

Dunk is a commanding presence in defence for Brighton

“His consistency over a number of seasons has been brilliant. His partnership with [Shane] Duffy was exceptional. He’s moved from a two to a three and he’s done really well in the three as well.

“[Brighton] are a side who have changed their backline so he’s capable of playing not only in a back-four but a back-five, so I think Dunk is well capable and I think h will have that move and because of his level of performance I think he’s owed a chance to play for a top-six club because he’s good enough.”