Chelsea linked with Bayern Munich defender as far worse alternative to Virgil van Dijk

Southampton’s Virgil van Dijk is one of the more coveted defenders on the market this summer, but Saints seem intent on getting more money for him than Everton got for John Stones last summer (which makes sense, given the two players’ relative abilities) and that could leave Chelsea and Manchester City and whoever else in the hunt looking at alternative, non-£60m options as well. According to the Daily Mail, one such alternative for Chelsea is veteran Bayern Munich defender Jérôme Boateng.

If that doesn’t make sense at first glance, don’t fret. This is Silly Season and in Silly Season, normal logic does not apply. Only Silly Season logic applies.

Boateng, now in his sixth season at the German champions, had multiple fitness issues through the season, limiting him to just 21 appearances. With young Niklas Süle incoming, Boateng could face a bit of uncertainty next season, too, especially if his injury issues continue.

"I don't have anything else planned. There's only a few clubs in the world with the appeal and tradition of Bayern Munich."

"I didn't play much so it's normal that I'm not entirely happy. Now I've just picked up this unfortunate injury against Freiburg. I'll use the off-season to be fit to begin preparations for the new season."

-Jerome Boateng; Source: SportBild via Daily Mail

One reason Boateng can concentrate on recovery and preparations is that he signed a new long-term contract just eighteen months ago, tying him to the club until 2021. Even if Boateng suddenly decided that something else other than Bayern appealed to him, they would be unlikely to accept a fee much lower than what Southampton are asking for Van Dijk. There’s no deal to be found here.

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