With January fast approaching, Antonio Conte is seemingly already eyeing a big-money move…
Whilst Antonio Conte’s men have impressed in recent weeks, it is clear that they are far from the finished article.
The Italian boss has done well with his limited resources, but it is clear that January will serve as a key rebuilding period as he looks to instil an extra edge of quality to Chelsea’s underachieving squad.
Whilst a little over 2 months remain until the transfer window re-opens, Conte has already identified a target; and he appears ready to make an immediate move.
According to the Daily Mirror, Chelsea are readying a bid for Porto star Ruben Neves.
They add that a move of around the £24m mark, plus a player, could be on the table – though Chelsea are reportedly demanding a response by the first week in November.
The deal will not be an easy one, though, with Liverpool also reportedly keen. The Daily Mirror add that Chelsea will have to beat their Premier League rivals in order to make the move happen.
The teenager has been impressing in recent months, as he continues his rapid rise to superstardom. Despite being just 19-years-old, he has already made an impressive 50 league appearances for the Portuguese giants – signalling how highly rated he is.
Navas made waves last year as he became a record-breaker, becoming the youngest player to captain his side in the Champions League – aged just 18-years-old.
In terms of playing style, he is in the same vein as a player like Nemanja Matic or Sergio Busquets, in that he is far more proficient defensively than he is going forward – and he is an expert in the tackle.
The deal certainly would make sense, given the uncertainty surrounding the futures of both Cesc Fabregas and Nemanja Matic – with both players not in the best vein of form. Neves would certainly add a dose of class and consistency to the midfield, and in many ways could serve as a hybrid of the two players.
Will the deal happen? It remains to be seen – but it could be a wonder stroke by Antonio Conte if he can make it happen.
Chelsea fans – thoughts?
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