Leicester City boss, Brendan Rodgers has acknowledged the possibility that Ben Chilwell might be on his way out of the King Power Stadium this summer with Chelsea leading the race to sign the English international.
Rodgers rates Chilwell very highly but at the same time respects that players might have different ambitions in order to step up a level in their respective careers. The English international has been in fine form for the Foxes and also been instrumental in their scintillating performances throughout the season.
However, the gaffer has demanded around £85 million for the full-back which is even more than Harry Maguire’s record-breaking £80 million transfer fee which Manchester United coughed up last summer. If Ben Chilwell is to part ways with the club, Leicester City will certainly need a replacement in that position to keep up their good work under Brendan Rodgers.
Here are options Leicester City could look at
Nicolas Tagliafico
Nicolas Tagliafico has been playing regular football for his national team, Argentina since the 2018 FIFA World Cup. He has also been a target for several clubs due to his displays with Ajax and would not be a bad option to replace Chilwell.
Tagliafico is brilliant with his ball interceptions with an average of 1.9 per game which could be a boon to strikers like Jamie Vardy who likes to get at the end of counter-attacks carried out by the likes of James Maddison and Tielemans. Tagliafico, currently nearing his peak, could well be tempted to make a move to the Premier League if the Foxes can hold on to their Champions League spot when the season ends.
Alex Telles
Alex Telles has been in sensational form for Porto this season and might be interested in a move away from the club in order to play in a more competitive league. Rodgers should definitely add the Brazilian to his wishlist considering his ability and form.
The 27-year-old, despite being a left-back, is a serious goal threat having netted 10 goals and managed 9 assists across all competitions for Porto this season. Telles’ numbers make him a better option than most of the other left-backs available at the moment and should also be within the financial constraints of Leicester if they have to make a move for a new fullback.
Marcos Alonso
Rodgers would not be wrong to ask Chelsea for Marcos Alonso plus cash in return of Ben Chilwell, who is Lampard’s main target after the capture of Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner. Alonso is a good enough option at left-back and also fits the gaffer’s attacking mentality that has been evident from their displays so far.
The Spaniard is only 29 and still has a couple of years at the peak of his game. His experience and winning pedigree are added advantages and he would come cheap and give Rodgers the option to buy other reinforcements with the extra cash.