Thomas Meunier turned down Chelsea move

Paris Saint-Germain right-back Thomas Meunier has revealed that he knocked back advances from Chelsea despite facing competition from Dani Alves for the right-back spot. The Belgium international had expected competition from a new signing in the summer but was surprised by the club's decision to sign Dani Alves on a free transfer.

Speaking with Eleven Sports, he said, "I was expecting the arrival of a right-back but not that of Dani. I did not know what to think. Was I only going to be a substitute? I could have left for Chelsea on the final day of the summer transfer window but I did not."

Despite Alves' arrival, Meunier is determined to fight for his future at Parc des Princes, and he wants to become the first-choice right-back by the end of the current campaign, he added, "I am good here and I do not want to leave -- I want to become the first choice in this role by the end of the season."

Meunier become a popular figure among Les Parisiens' supporters last term, and many were surprised that the Capital outfit signed Alves in the summer. Nevertheless, the Brazil international has not disappointed with two goals and four assists in just 13 appearances across all competitions.

With the international break underway, Meunier is currently with the Belgium national side who take on Mexico and Japan over the next fortnight. The Red Devils comfortably secured their berth to the World Cup finals in Russia and Roberto Martinez may not seek to test the bench strength.

Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain return to Ligue 1 action with a game against Nantes, a week on Saturday, and they will hope to attain all three points to maintain their four-point lead over AS Monaco. The signings of Alves, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappe have significantly bolstered Paris Saint-Germain's squad, and the club's hierarchy are said to have the ambition of fighting for domestic and European success this term.