Chelsea Transfer News: Benoit Assou-Ekotto is Ashley Cole Replacement?
Chelsea lining up a shock bid for Spurs defender Assou-Ekotto?
Chelsea are lining up a shock move for Tottenham Hotspur defender Benoit Assou-Ekotto in the New Year, according to a report in The Mirror. The Blues are in the market for a new left back, with veteran Ashley Cole's contract running out in the summer and no renewal in sight. Youngster Ryan Bertrand was tipped to fill his position, however the club's hierarchy believe the 23 year old could benefit from the competition the Cameroon defender would create. Assou-Ekotto has barely played under Andre Villas-Boas' Tottenham this season because of a knee injury that has kept him out of action since September 1st, managing only four appearances before that. Spurs have coped without him however, despite the fact he was one of their best players last season. The emergence of Jan Vertonghen means that there may no longer be room for him in Villas-Boas plans in the New Year. Chelsea will come in with an initial offer of £5million, which would leave Spur's in profit on the player as they signed him for £3.5million from Lens in 2006. Meanwhile, the Blues are reportedly interested in bringing 17 year old Southampton left-back Luke Shaw to Stamford Bridge, and will offer goalkeeper Thibaut Courtoi a new contract upon his return on loan from Atletico Madrid. Courtoi is in his second season on loan at present, and took over the number one jersey at Atletico upon the departure of David de Gea to Manchester United. His performances so far in La Liga have attracted Barcelona, but Chelsea are keen to keep hold of the 20-year old shot stopper.