The Blues have not had the most promising season so far but are keen on bringing in a star quality defender in the form of Kalidou Koulibaly in the summer. The Senegalese international has been immense for Napoli since his arrival and Chelsea are monitoring him in order to bolster their defense. So bad has been Antonio Conte’s title defense this season that Chelsea is currently out of the top 4 and may struggle to get a Champions League spot for next season. But according to latest reports, the London based club is keen on bringing in reinforcements to strengthen their back line. Conte has been using a lot of defensive strategies this season but that has still not covered the leakage of goals when Chelsea has played.
Having brought in Antonio Rudiger last summer in order to replace the legendary John Terry has not quite worked out for Chelsea and Conte, as the former AS Roma has been decent but unable to guide the side when under pressure.
More so, 21-year-old Andreas Christensen was recalled from his loan spell at Bundesliga club Borussia Monchengladbach and has fit in well at the heart of the Chelsea defense.
However, the youngster is always susceptible to the odd mistake with his inexperience. We saw that against Chelsea when his misplaced pass allowed Barcelona to equalize at Stamford Bridge and get a crucial away goal.
The Blues also lost key midfield man Nemanja Matic as the Serbian was sold to fierce title rivals Manchester United in the summer and have struggled to replace him despite making several signings in the form of Tiemoue Bakayoko, Ross Barkley, and Danny Drinkwater.
Matic was imperative to Chelsea’s back line as he shielded them from dangerous situations extremely well.
Either way, Chelsea need to make a few quality summer signings in order to strengthen their rearguard.
Conte had been rumored to make a bid for Koulibaly in the winter transfer window as he has been rock solid for Napoli.
His determined shows at the back have helped the Italian side to 2nd place on the Serie A table.
At 6 feet 5 inches, the Senegalese man is a towering figure at the back who is extremely elegant as well on the ball.
He has established himself as a mainstay in Napoli’s defense. Koulibaly is a large figure, yet quick the 26-year-old is able to dominate strikers in the physical department and has grown in stature as a player.
He is also a very good passer of the ball which allows Napoli to carry the ball out from the back.
Chelsea is still monitoring the central defender, who can also be used as a defensive midfielder, although Napoli will not be willing to sell Koulibaly at a cheap price.
He has become a vital player for the club and Chelsea will have a task on hand to bring him to Stamford Bridge.
However, Chelsea will first need to ensure they qualify for the Champions League in order to sign new players that want to play in the elite competition.
