Chelsea transfer news: Chelsea have entered an increasingly competitive battle for Atalanta defender Giorgio Scalvini, although Tottenham Hotspur are pushing just as hard for the Italy international. According to The Sun, and the report relayed by Transfer Feed, both Premier League clubs have placed the 22-year-old centre-back high on their shortlist, while Newcastle United could yet join the contest.
Chelsea transfer news: Spurs join Blues in Giorgio Scalvini chase
Atalanta value Scalvini at around £42 million ($56.5 million), a figure that reflects both his quality and long-term potential. Chelsea continue searching for another reliable defender despite recent investment across the squad, while Spurs want greater depth and consistency after identifying central defence as a priority area.
Interest in Scalvini comes as little surprise. He offers calm distribution, strong positioning and the confidence to play through pressure rather than taking the easy clearance. Those qualities have made him one of Serie A’s most admired young defenders, leaving Atalanta in a strong negotiating position during this window.
Chelsea transfer news: Spurs offer a clearer football project
Scalvini enjoyed an impressive return after recovering from his serious ACL injury during the 2025/26 campaign. He played 30 matches across all competitions, scored three goals, supplied one assist and completed 2,231 minutes. In Serie A alone, he featured in 24 games as Atalanta kept seven clean sheets, while his reported 94% Champions League passing accuracy highlighted his comfort in possession.
Chelsea admire exactly that profile. Xabi Alonso wants centre-backs capable of stepping into midfield and breaking opposition pressure with progressive passing. Even so, competition for places has increased after the arrivals of Maxence Lacroix and Marco Palestra, making guaranteed minutes difficult for any new signing.
Spurs can present a simpler picture. Robert de Zerbi’s aggressive defensive setup demands composed ball-playing defenders, and Scalvini matches those requirements almost perfectly. A regular place alongside Cristian Romero or even to replace him could appeal far more than entering another crowded battle for selection.
Chelsea transfer news: VF’s opinion
VF believes Tottenham hold a slight edge despite Chelsea’s financial strength. Scalvini has rebuilt his reputation after a difficult injury spell, so regular football should rank above everything else at this stage of his career.
Chelsea still have the resources to change the race, although outgoing transfers may influence how quickly they can make a decisive move. Spurs don’t appear to face the same obstacle and can move with greater freedom. A package worth around £45 million, including £38 million upfront and £7 million in performance-related add-ons, feels like a sensible compromise for all parties. Based on the current situation and The Sun’s report, Tottenham’s football project looks more convincing than Chelsea’s.