According to an Italian news outlet, Tele Sport(via Talksport), Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has urged the club to sign Napoli star Elseid Hysaj. The Albanian international has worked under Sarri during their time together at Napoli and could reunite with the Italian in the upcoming January transfer window.
Elseid Hysaj: Player profile
Hysaj is regarded as one of the best right-backs in the Serie A, thanks to a series of consistent performance in the past few seasons. He is mainly known for his attacking qualities, as he can provide support to his teammates in the final third whilst also playing a key role in the build-up.
One of Hysaj’s greatest strengths is his ability to carry the ball upfield. In addition, he has an excellent first touch and is blessed with immense technical prowess. The Albanian already averages 60 passes per game with an accuracy of 86%.
However, what makes Hysaj such a sought-after fullback is his athleticism and commitment. Indeed, the 24-year-old can cover up ground very quickly and his leadership skills and commitment are also qualities that make him an appealing target for Chelsea.
That being said, crossing is surely not his forte, having averaged only 0.3 accurate crosses per game. Being an attack-minded fullback, this is one area which surely needs improvement. He should also improve his game defensively, especially when it comes to following his marker. But, averaging one interception and 2.6 tackles per game is not a bad reading at all.
Should Chelsea pursue Elseid Hysaj?
While Hysaj may not be the most accomplished defender in his own half, lacking the necessary defensive qualities, the Albanian can surely be an excellent inclusion given his expertise in the attacking half.
As iterated earlier, the 23-year-old excels in his offensive play, especially when it comes to rotating possession and providing himself as a passing option for his teammates in the final third.
His passing statistics are also on the higher side, which indicates the fact that the Napoli star is unlikely to have any problems with integrating into Chelsea’s possession-based gameplay.
Most importantly, it’s Elseid’s past relationship with coach Sarri that will ease his job of settling into life in England. The Albanian is already well aware of Sarri’s demands and style of play and should, therefore, find no difficulties in acclimatising himself to a club like Chelsea.
And at the age of 24, Hysaj has time on his side and can potentially turn out to be an excellent long-term replacement for Cesar Azpilicueta.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored