Chelsea have been linked with yet another defender…

According to the Sun, Chelsea are set to target Newcastle defender Jamaal Lascelles – as Antonio Conte looks to sure up his faltering Chelsea defence.

677231

The Newcastle skipper has been in fine form this season, and his defensive solidity has been crucial as Rafa Benitez’ side continue to dominate the Championship

The links have been met with some criticism given that Lascelles would be a low-profile signing, especially when compared to reported targets like Leonardo Bonucci – but in reality, the deal actually makes quite a lot of sense.

With that said, here are 3 reasons why Newcastle star Jamaal Lascelles would be a great signing for Chelsea…

 Departing Defenders

It would come as no surprise to hear that Chelsea are set to usher in a new generation defensively, with a number of defenders likely set to leave the club at the end of the season.

John Terry and Branislav Ivanovic both have deals that are set to expire at the end of the season, and given the duo’s poor form so far this season – a renewal appears unlikely at this point.

In a similar vein, Gary Cahill’s form this season has not been great – and so his future remains up in the air.

Add to this uncertainty surrounding how well Kurt Zouma will come back from his long-term injury lay-off, and you’ve got a concoction of confusion within the Chelsea defence.

It appears inevitable that Chelsea will need to invest in a new central defender at the end of the season – and Jamaal Lascelles would definitely be a great option for that.

 Long-Term Solution

Leonardo Bonucci might offer a more high-profile solution, but Jamaal Lascelles would offer so much more, crucially, over a longer time period.

At just 22-years-old, Lascelles’ career is just beginning; whilst Bonucci’s is coming to an end.

Chelsea could get the best part of a decade at the top from Lascelles – and he would finally settle Chelsea’s long-term defensive issue, whilst an older option would just offer a short-term fix.

 Leadership

John Terry’s absence in the Chelsea defence has been easy to spot this season – given that the Blues simply lack direction without him.

He is Chelsea’s captain, and on the field, there is absolutely nobody better to command the Chelsea defence.

That makes the situation even more worrying, then, that if he does depart Chelsea this summer – the Blues could be left with a lack of leadership.

This is where Jamaal Lascelles comes in, with the Newcastle defender recently being given the captain’s armband by Rafa Benitez.

The ex-Chelsea boss has clearly seen something in the youngster, and that has translated onto the pitch with the Newcastle skipping commanding and dominating the Newcastle back line.

If Conte wants a leader to replace JT – look no further.

Loading ...