Opinion:Brighton defender Lewis Dunk offers no real value to Chelsea

Another week of the transfer window, and we still await Chelsea to make their first signing. After the great news that the Blues had the transfer ban overturned last month, many would be forgiven for expected the club to splash the cash this month. However, we’re not even halfway through the month, so plenty of time for Frank Lampard to add to his squad.

One of the latest players to be linked with a move to Stamford Bridge is Brighton defender Lewis Dunk. Dunk is a good centre back, a no nonsense defender, a ball winner, and a great leader. He has also been capped once by England, just over a year ago.

As Brighton’s captain Dunk has helped secure the South-coast clubs premier league status, as they are now in their third season in the top flight.

According to reports yesterday, Chelsea have made an enquiry about the big defender. The Daily Mail (citing The Times) claim Brighton would want £50m to part with the 28-year-old.

Now was good as Dunk is, and as crazy as the market can be, that’s a lot of money for a player of that age, in only his third season at the highest level. Dunk has bags of experience, having made nearly 300-senior appearances.

When you consider some have scoffed at the £40m rumour regarding West Ham’s Issa Diop, and a possible return for Nathan Ake – Both would surely make more sense that spending such a huge amount on Dunk.

There would be no sell-on value, and an element of risk. Although you could say that with every player. I feel the old ‘English premium’ is playing a huge part in that valuation. Although I’m not convinced Chelsea should consider a move, if the club do, a bid closer to £30m would be a fair fee in the current market.