French Ligue 1 giants Monaco and PSG have joined the race for highly talented Watford attacker Richarlison, who is also courted by Arsenal and Chelsea.
The Brazilian attacking sensation has been one of the most prolific players for Watford this season, which has attracted a host of top clubs around Europe. And the Watford star is highly expected to leave the club in the upcoming summer transfer window, despite the club’s initial wish to keep the player for the long-term. The club have recently slapped a hefty £40m price tag on the player and expect clubs to cough up the sum given the current inflated market.
Chelsea, in particular, have shown immense interest in the services of the 20-year-old, who has shown incredible promise in his first season in the Premier League.
Since joining the club last summer from Fluminense, Richarlison has emerged as a valuable offensive player for the Hornets, scoring five goals this campaign as well as registering the equal number of assists. His offensive prowess has helped Watford maintain their status as a mid-table outfit in the Premier League this season and better it at times.
However, that being said, the Brazilian sensation has suffered a huge dip in form, especially in the second half of the season. Richarlison is yet to score in 22 Premier League games. His last goal came against West Ham in November, which signifies Watford’s troubles in the attacking department this season.
Due to the lack of any reliable option in the attacking positions, Richarlison has struggled to provide any service in the final third.
As for Chelsea, who might be on the verge of losing Belgian superstar Eden Hazard, they are in dire need of a world class attacker this summer. Even though the Blues have already been linked with a host of top players around Europe, including Gareth Bale, signing a top-quality attacker might prove to be a difficult task considering the huge competition in the market these days.
The likes of Pedro and Alvaro Morata have also failed to provide any meaningful service upfront, meaning the London giants could undergo a massive squad overhaul this summer.
But considering Richarlison’s rather topsy-turvy season at the Vicarage Road this season, acquiring his services might turn out to be a huge mistake from the Premier League giants. The Brazilian is yet to impress in the second half of the season, which only raises questions about his long-term credentials in the English top-flight.
Therefore, the defending Premier League champions should definitely look at more viable and accomplished options in the market. Bordeaux starlet Malcom will be a stunning acquisition from Chelsea’s point of view, as he can not only add a spark up front but also become a long-term prospect for the club.
Stats Courtesy: Whoscored