Chelsea, Tottenham, and Aston Villa are all keen to sign free agent Mario Hermoso following the expiry of his contract with Atletico Madrid, according to AreaNapoli. The Spanish center-back is leaving the Wanda Metropolitano after falling out of favor with Diego Simeone, with Serie A giants Napoli currently leading the race for his signature.
However, Napoli's deal has stalled as they look to raise funds first, alerting several Premier League clubs to Hermoso's availability. Former Chelsea and Spurs boss Antonio Conte wants to bring the defender to Napoli, but financial constraints have delayed the move.
Hermoso, regarded as one of the best free agents this summer, has expressed his willingness to wait for Napoli, but not indefinitely. Reports from Italy suggest that Conte's former English clubs, Chelsea and Tottenham, along with Aston Villa, are ready to step in if Hermoso opens up to a Premier League move.
Interest from Saudi Arabia has also been reported, though it remains unclear if Hermoso would prefer a move to the Middle East over England's top flight, despite the lucrative wages likely to be offered.
Chelsea has already strengthened their central defense by signing Tosin Adarabioyo from Fulham on a free transfer, following the departure of Thiago Silva. However, Trevoh Chalobah is set to leave after being excluded from the club's pre-season tour of the USA.
Tottenham, on the other hand, has Cristian Romero, Micky Van de Ven, and Radu Dragusin competing for starting spots in their defense. With Joe Rodon sold to Leeds and Ashley Phillips expected to go out on loan again, the addition of Hermoso could provide much-needed depth.
As the transfer window progresses, fans and analysts alike will closely watch where Mario Hermoso will land, with the Premier League and Serie A both potential destinations for the talented defender.
