Below-par play in the midfield has been the major reason behind Chelsea’s poor form this season. But it might change in the next summer transfer window.
Antonio Conte’s plans to get the team right have so far failed with the uninspired singings of Bakayoko, Barkley and Drinkwater. Hence it comes as no surprise that the Blues are eager to strengthen their midfield with the addition of new faces.
According to the reports in Italian newspaper Messaggero, Chelsea is in talks with the Lazio midfielder Felipe Anderson. The Brazilian was on the radar of Manchester United during Loius van Gaal’s spell as the Dutch manager tried to sign him in 2015. The 24-year old rejected the move back then to develop in Serie A.
Lazio star to Chelsea?
Felipe Anderson on Chelsea’s hit list
Biancocelesti have put a price tag of €40m on Felipe Anderson with age on his side. The midfielder has 2-years remaining on his current contract but the Italian side is open to selling the player in the summer.
Anderson was a part of Seleção’s first ever Olympic Gold Medal winning squad in 2016. The Brazilian is at Lazio since 2013 and has scored 30 goals in 163 appearances. Felipe is usually deployed in the central attacking role at Lazio but the player can also play on either side of the midfield, always looking to deliver inch-perfect crosses.
Chelsea’s midfield woes have been highlighted this season as Conte’s men are currently 5th in the league standings, off the pace in top 4 spots. The new signings have failed to impress at the club as veteran Fabregas also looks out of sorts.
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The current English champions will take Crystal Palace in the Premier League. The Blues will then travel to Barcelona for the second leg of the last-16 clash in Champions League.
Author’s Take:
Felipe Anderson is a talented midfielder and with age on his side, he can go a long way. The player is currently performing the Number 10 duties for Lazio and can do the same for the Blues. But with all due respect to Lazio, who have performed wonderfully in the last few seasons, the fans will be asking for a lot at the Stamford Bridge. Will the Brazilian be able to deliver at the higher stage?
