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Chelsea must fend off interest from Newcastle and former manager Jose Mourinho in their pursuit of Bosnian wonderkid Amar Dedic, according to reports.
The 21-year-old full-back has impressed for Red Bull Salzburg this campaign, contributing five goals and three assists from defence so far.
Dedic has already riveted the gaze of several top clubs across Europe including Arsenal, Barcelona and Inter Milan, and now the Blues are reportedly keeping tabs on the defender.
Newcastle have also kept a close eye on the youngster, scouting him during a handful of Red Bull Salzburg matches.
Chelsea are hoping to sign Red Bull Salzburg defender Amar Dedic (left) in the January window
The west London club have sent scouts to watch Dedic in the Champions League this season
Dedic, who is already the club captain of RB Salzburg, would provide cover for Chelsea captain Reece James, who is enduring several setbacks on his hamstring injury.
Meanwhile, Newcastle would sign the versatile defender to deputise in both full-back roles.
Roma attempted to sign Dedic last summer, launching a £21.5million bid amid Mourinho’s keen interest in the player.
Despite Salzburg rejecting the offer, the Serie A side are still hoping to lure Dedic to the Italian capital, providing Mourinho stays put as manager next season.
Roma’s pursuit of the Bosnia star will depend on Jose Mourinho’s future in the Italian capital
Mourinho’s uncertain future could prompt Roma to pull out of the race until the summer.
Having come through the club’s youth ranks, Dedic was on the books at Salzburg during Erling Haaland’s spell at the Austrian side, although he was out on loan at Liefering at the time.
