LISTED: Chelsea’s Top 6 Transfer Targets For The Upcoming Summer Window
Antonio Conte has just won the league with Chelsea, but the Italian still sees a lot of room for improvement, which is why he has created a 6-man shortlist of reinforcements for the Blues to pursue in the upcoming transfer window.
The list (via The Independent) consists of the following names:
Virgil Van Dijk
Van Dijk is one of the most wanted defenders in Premier League,with the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City all interested. It is believed that Van Dijk, however, is more inclined towards a move to Stamford Bridge. Conte wants to sign Van Dijk to partner him up alongside Luiz and Azpilicueta in the 3-man Chelsea defence.
Alvaro Morata
It’s common knowledge that Alvaro Morata wants out of Real Madrid, where he hasn’t been given the role he feels he deserves. Antonio Conte, who worked with the Spaniard at Juventus, is looking for a reunion with the Spaniard. The Chelsea boss wants to replace outgoing Diego Costa with the Real Madrid striker.
Tiemoué Bakayoko
Bakayoko, one of the best players of Monaco’s current golden crop, is also one of the most exciting midfielders in the world. At an age of 22, the Frenchman possesses great awareness and strength to set him apart. It’s believed that Chelsea are in advanced talks with Bakayoko, as they seek to add some more steel and power in their midfield.
Romelu Lukaku
Former Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku is another striker on the radar of Conte. The Belgian has been in lethal form this season, leading the Premier League goal-scoring charts. Conte will look to bring in Lukaku if he fails to sign Alvaro Morata.
Fernando Llorente
The big Spaniard is Conte’s third-choice striker, and he might revive his interest in the forward, as the Italian looked into the possibility of signing the Swansea man during the winter transfer window.
Dries Mertens
Dries Mertens, 30, has attracted interest from a number of clubs (including Chelsea) with his impressive displays for Napoli in the Serie A. However, his age and Napoli’s determination to keep him might cool off interest from Conte.
Written by Shorya Panwar
Has 20+ years of experience managing Schalke in Football Manager 2017. Believes wing-backs are the most complete footballers in the modern/evolved football. Writes weird stuff on his personal blog.