Tottenham transfer news: Chelsea now in talks for Conte’s £40m top target

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Chelsea have now contacted Sporting Lisbon to discuss a January transfer for Pedro Porro after Reece James’ recent injury. But the right-back is also a target for Tottenham Hotspur.

That is according to 90min, which reports the Blues have joined Spurs in holding talks with the Leoes. The London rivals both admire what the 23-year-old has produced since leaving Manchester City permanently last summer. He had been on loan with Sporting since 2020.

Tottenham have a strong affection for Porro but Chelsea are now striving to beat them to his transfer in January. Stamford Bridge chiefs have also approached their counterparts at the Estadio Jose Alvalade to sound out the likely terms required to sign the one-cap Spain star.

Sporting Lisbon dealt Chelsea the same blow they handed Tottenham following Spurs’ first approach for Porro’s transfer, however. The Leoes are in no mood to see their defender go in January. So, any club wishing to sign Porro must trigger his €45m (£40m) release clause.

Chelsea are now weighing up their next move as boss Graham Potter looks to add depth at right-back. He wants the west London outfit to sign another option for the position during the winter sales after losing James again. The England star is sidelined with a knee injury.

Tottenham have not given up on Pedro Porro’s transfer from Sporting Lisbon

James sustained his latest injury against AFC Bournemouth on December 27 whilst making his return from an earlier knee problem. The wing-back missed two months and the World Cup after he suffered the blow away to AC Milan in the Champions League on October 11.

Now, Chelsea are moving to rival Tottenham for the transfer of Sporting Lisbon star Porro to provide Potter with depth. The 23-year-old is enjoying a strong season at the Leoes with 10 assists and two goals during his 22 appearances, starting 19, across all competitions so far.

Tottenham have not rolled over and given up on their pursuit of Porro’s transfer, though. The Guardian reports that Spurs will hold further talks with Sporting Lisbon. Antonio Conte also considers the 5 ft 8 dynamo to be his top right-back target during the mid-season market.