Chelsea transfer target Denzel Dumfries has already proven the strength of his character

Chelsea should have no doubts over the character of transfer target Denzen Dumfries.

The Blues are in need of another centre-back this summer despite the arrival of Kalidou Koulibaly from Napoli.

Chelsea lost Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen this summer, and they are still one centre-back short as the new season draws near.

Jules Koundé appeared to be the chosen one, but interest from Barcelona has complicated the situation.

Instead, it’s now being claimed Inter star Dumfries could be the man to complete the puzzle, with the Evening Standard saying the Dutchman is the new priority.

Dumfries is a right-back by trade, but he could slot in as a right-sided centre-back in Tuchel’s three-at-the-back system - much like skipper Cesar Azpilicueta has done in the past.

As Chelsea chase a deal, Dumfries’ character is worth taking note of, with Tuchel valuing mental fortitude, and particularly when it comes to defenders.

It hasn’t all been sunshine and rainbows for Dumfries at Inter, and speaking about his initial struggles, he said: “The different culture and language were the main difficulties.

“I could not understand properly at first. But football is always the same, and you just have to play well.

“I honed in on my position in the last two months. I understood what they were asking me to do and improved my defensive reads. Working hard and getting better are the foundations of my life.”

“The penalty kick I caused against Juventus was the toughest moment so far. It felt like the world crumbled on me.

“But the support from the club was palpable, and I quickly tried to regain the mental balance.

“Danilo D’Ambrosio rushed to hug me after scoring against Empoli in the next game, which had never happened to me. It was a positive shock and a true emotion. I realised that everybody was on my side.”

Speaking about his move to Inter more generally, he added: "I'm going to be honest, when I signed the contract with Inter I didn't think about it for a second - I did it despite the fact that a lot of people didn't believe in me.

“I really think that in the Netherlands a lot of talent is lost due to a certain vision of the players.

“They just don't see the potential, especially with defenders, but I never gave up. I was more sorry for the limited vision of certain people. There is a lot what to learn".