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Thomas Tuchel will likely need all his persuasive powers if he is to convince Emerson Palmieri to consider a return to Chelsea this summer.

The Brazil-born full-back joined the Blues in January 2018, signing in an initial £17m deal from Roma. However, he has never really established himself as a regular with a string of managers failing to be convinced by Emerson.

Indeed, with both Ben Chilwell and Marcos Alonso ahead of him in the pecking order, Emerson departed Stamford Bridge last summer in order to join Lyon on a season’s loan. Upon his exit, Emerson made clear the conversation he’s had with Tuchel.

However, the move to France has gone exactly as he’s have hoped. Indeed, he’s proven a huge success with Peter Bosz’s side having made 32 appearances in all competitions and establishing himself as a key member of the side.

The deal to take him to Lyon also gives the Ligue 1 side the option to make the move permanent.

But with several other options open to him, Emerson suddenly finds himself a man in demand.

As well as Lyon, there is interest in Italy from Juventus. Furthermore, Maurizio Sarri is also keen on reuniting with the player at Lazio.

There is also talk that Tuchel would like Emerson Palmieri back at Stamford Bridge next season.

Chelsea’s defensive options look likely to be severely reduced over the summer with a number of players likely to leave. Andreas Christensen looks likely to sign for Barcelona. And he looks to be followed out the exit door by Cesar Azpilicueta  – who can also cover at left-back – and, possibly, Antonio Rudiger.

Emerson Palmieri hints at Lyon stay

Furthermore, Chelsea may also look to deploy a slow and steady return to action for Chilwell following a serious injury.

That said, it seems Emerson does not see himself back at Stamford Bridge.

Furthermore, he claims a permanent move to Lyon may also be an option.

“Of course, yes, I have no problem saying that I can stay at OL,” he told Foot Mercato.

“It’s a pleasure to be here. There are different factors. It doesn’t just depend on me. There are still six games to play, and then I will have an answer to give you all.”

The news means Tuchel will likely need to spend on a few new defensive recruits this summer.

Emerson is contracted to Chelsea until summer 2024.

Rudiger rules out Man Utd move

Meanwhile, the future of Rudiger continues to dominate column inches.

The German has established himself as one of the elite defenders in the world game. As such, the Blues would very much like to extend his stay.

However, he has suitors aplenty with Bayern Munich, PSG, Real Madrid and Juventus among his admirers.

There have also been rumours of a move to Manchester United. However, reports on Tuesday claim the 29-year-old has no intention of moving to Old Trafford.

Reports claim their struggle to finish in the Champions League places this season has convinced Rudiger to look elsewhere.

Rudiger himself also hints he may yet stay at Stamford Bridge.

“I feel great here, I have always said it,” he said. “I think the way I play you can see that I’m happy here.”

In reference to his new contract, he added: “But there are also other people who have to make decisions.”

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