Juventus leading Inter Milan in race for Chelsea’s Emerson Palmieri — reports

Despite playing a vital role in Chelsea’s last two matches against Atletico Madrid and Sheffield United, there’s little doubt that Emerson Palmieri is the third-choice left back at the club. He has been involved in just 181 minutes of football under Thomas Tuchel’s reign, and it’s more or less a given that he will look to leave the club in the summer.

According to Tuttosport (via Sport Witness) and Gazzetta dello Sport (via Sport Witness), interest is not lacking in the Italy international, with both Juventus and Inter Milan still vying for his services. The reports claim that Chelsea’s asking price for the 26-year-old always tended to be “exorbitant” in the past transfer windows, but with Emerson’s contract expiring in 2022, both the Serie A giants are optimistic that a deal can be done at a cut-price rate.

Emerson himself is looking to depart as per the reports, which is unsurprising to say the least, with the Old Lady seemingly ahead in the race. Juventus’ good business relationship with Chelsea is highlighted, and this could apparently prove to be the deciding factor that lands Emerson — and his compatriot, Jorginho — at the Allianz Stadium.

Emerson’s departure is a foregone conclusion at this point, with only his future destination yet to be ascertained. We should have more clarity on the latter aspect in the months to come.