Many news sources, including The Guardian, report that David Luiz is a sensational target for Chelsea and the defender is open to move back to Stamford Bridge. They are willing to pay £32 million to re-sign David Luiz, but it will be a tough deal to do this close to the deadline. PSG won’t want to sell him on the final day as they will struggle to find a replacement. However, the player’s will could play a part and it is a deal that could go all the way to the wire.
Chelsea have needed defensive reinforcements all window and a move for Luiz would be a popular one. He is a very good centre back and already has a great relationship with the fans. They were disappointed to see him leave two years ago and would welcome his return to Stamford Bridge. There are doubts about his ability as a defender, but he would be a huge improvement on what is currently at Stamford Bridge. The opportunity to play under Antonio Conte will appeal to him and it could be exactly what he needs to become a world class defender.
An alternative to David Luiz could be West Ham United’s Italian centre back Angelo Ogbonna, who played for Conte at Euro 2016. The Daily Express report that the club are prioritising a move for the West Ham defender. Conte is a huge fan and having previously managed Ogbonna, he knows that he would be a good fit at Chelsea. Crucially he is able to play in a system with three defenders and would provide pace to the Chelsea defence, something that is lacking at the moment.
It won’t be an easy deal to do as West Ham will be keen to keep Ogbonna, especially given the timing of Chelsea’s pursuit. He is a regular for the club and starred during his first season in England. A big fee would be required to convince their London rivals to sell and Chelsea are paying the consequences of leaving it until the last day of the window. It would be an underwhelming signing after being linked to better players for the majority of the window. However Chelsea need to bring in defensive reinforcements and Ogbonna would be a solid addition that improves the squad.
Marcos Alonso is currently undergoing a medical at Chelsea and is set to sign after days of speculation. Sky Sports report a fee has been agreed, which is believed to be in the region of £24 million. It is a big fee and one that some will be unconvinced by as he has previously played for Bolton and Sunderland. This experience will be invaluable, despite the difference of stature between these two clubs and Chelsea. He won’t need the adjustment period that is required for most players arriving from another league and this means he is able to make an immediate impact.
The Fiorentina left-back is versatile and will be a great fit for Conte’s system. He dominates in the air, but is also very good with the ball at his feet. During his time in Serie A, he has developed into a modern day full back and gained experience as a centre back in a three. The latter is important as that is Conte’s favoured system and Chelsea are slowly bringing in players capable of playing it. This season he will likely play as a left back and provide the balance that Chelsea need in their back four. He is 25 and is beginning to develop into a great full back. This is a great signing for Chelsea.
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