Paris Saint-Germain threaten to hi-jack Chelsea’s move for Paredes

Chelsea risk missing out on Leandro Paredes as Paris Saint-Germain have made a move for the Zenit midfielder, claims Gianluca Di Marzio.

Paredes has emerged as a top transfer target for Chelsea this month as Maurizio Sarri looks to sign a replacement for Cesc Fabregas.

Chelsea have already had two bids rejected by Zenit this month and the Russian giants are reportedly holding out for in excess of £40m.

Sarri’s side are mulling their options but now risk missing out on the Argentina international altogether, as PSG have made Zenit an offer.

PSG are also on the market for a new central midfielder this month, in order to remain competitive across all competitions during the second half of the season.

Adrien Rabiot has been frozen out until his contract expires, while Lass Diarra is reportedly set to announce his retirement.

This has made signing a new central midfielder a priority for the French side and Paredes has emerged as a serious transfer target.

PSG have submitted a €35m bid for the 24-year-old but it remains to be seen whether that will be enough to convince Zenit to part ways with their best midfielder.

Thomas Tuchel is also keen on reuniting with Borussia Dortmund midfielder Julian Weigl, so Paredes is not the only option being assessed by the Ligue 1 champions.

Since the start of last season, only two players have won possession in the midfield third more times than Paredes (155) in the Russian Premier League.