The Premier League Champions could be involved in some serious transfer business this summer. It should come as no surprise as Chelsea will want to compete on all fronts both in Domestic and European football.
The recent departures of John Terry and Branislav Ivanovic in January have opened up a few spots at the back where we might see some new recruits next season.
Although Conte’s current first choice back line includes David Luiz (30), Gary Cahill (31), and Cesar Azpilicueta (27), he is still looking at the future. Here are three centre-backs that Chelsea should target as long-term prospects for the club.
#1 Davinson Sanchez
The Colombian has had a more than impressive run with Ajax this season and has been steadily climbing the ladder of success. Unknown to many, the 20-year-old has been a central figure to his club’s success this year where they have been runners-up in both League table and Europa League.
The 6’2″ Colombian has a dominant physical presence inside the box to thwart aerial threats. The youngster also exudes sheer speed, agility and quick reflex to give any good striker a run for his money.
Having played 32 matches for Ajax in the Eredivisie, the youngster has contributed 6 goals and 2 assists for his club. No shortage of confidence for the young man it seems.
His impressive run in the Europa League has also drawn plaudits from all around where he maintained a pass success percentage of 82.
Composure, exuberance and stamina seem to be oozing from the defender at such an early stage.
Although Ajax would play hardball in selling their asset, still with Conte’s perseverance it might be a gem of an acquisition!
#2 Presnel Kimpembe
The 21-year-old French has raised many heads with his performance this season with PSG. Paired mostly with Thiago Silva at the back, the youngster has slowly established himself as a force not to be meddled with.
The Parisian has played 19 games in the Ligue 1, a massive achievement for a youngster at a club like PSG no doubt.
The Player has a mind-boggling pass success rate of 95% making 3 key passes for his team this season, but, has been unable to register his name in either the scoring or assist sheet. It just goes to show that the player is more effective in staying back as the ever loyal sentry to the back line and likes to build up play from the back. a quality which is rarely seen in youngsters these days.
Hopefully, Conte is keeping an eye on the defender.
#3 Ben Gibson
The Middlesbrough youngster has been the subject of interest for many clubs this summer. The 24-year-old has impressed many with his unconventional and vocal defensive style and techniques.
Fighting to win every aerial duel and not afraid to tackle oncoming threats, the player is said to possess the characteristics of a young John Terry. With interest already mounting high for the Englishman, Conte should try to snatch him at the earliest.
The Englishman has played in all 38 of the matches for Boro this season, contributing a goal and an assist to the team. Not too prolific in going up front, the player likes to build play from the back which is much evident from his passing accuracy of 85% for the season.
With a dribble and tackle success rate of 94% and 71% respectively, the creativity and vision of the player are pretty evident.
Also making a stunning 57 interceptions, the player has been a rock at the back and an eminent figure at Boro.
A serious future prospect for any club, Conte should definitely put him on his shopping list.
Stats Courtesy: Squawka