Antonio Conte managed to lift the Premier League title in his first year at the Stamford Bridge but the Blues have found it tough to sign up their top transfer targets this summer. The Italian manager is looking to improve on various positions in the squad and one position he is desperate to improve on is the midfield area.
Chelsea used N’Golo Kante and Nemanja Matic as the first choice midfielders in the previous season with Cesc Fabregas as the only backup. And it is now understood that Chelsea are closing in on the signature of French midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko for a move this summer.
Transfer Story:
The AS Monaco midfielder is one of the most wanted players in his position after a stellar campaign in Ligue 1. He has been a top transfer target for Chelsea but is also wanted by the likes of Manchester United and Liverpool, who are also in search of midfielders for their squad.
It is reported that Bakayoko has a knee problem that might push this deal into jeopardy but at just 22, he will grow stronger and is one of the best possible options for the squad at the Stamford Bridge.
His attributes:
A defensive midfielder by trait, Bakayoko is adept at sitting back and running the game for his side. He is strong and athletic and has mastered the art of holding the ball up, which will come in handy in England. He has decent dribbling skills to go with his insane passing range, making him an all-round midfielder at such a young age.
He showed in the previous campaign that he is ready to sparkle at the highest stage and though Monaco could yet provide him with a chance to realise his potential, Chelsea seems to be the perfect destination for the 22-year old to rise to prominence.
The situation at the Bridge:
As already mentioned, Matic and Kante did a decent job, helping Chelsea to their second title in three years. But Conte is determined to improve on the options in his midfield and is desperate to add a genuine partner for Kante next season.
And Bakayoko could fill this gap with precision. The French connection between Kante and Bakayoko is certain to help and to add to it, the newbie is tailor-made for the English game and his style of play is complementary to Kante’s who can run the show with Bakayoko shielding the defence behind him.
Nemanja Matic has been linked with a move to Manchester United and if Chelsea sign Bakayoko, the Red Devils may be able to get their man but Chelsea will certainly find an upgrade in the French star. Do you think he is the right man for the Blues?
