Numerous reports are indicating that Chelsea boss Antonio Conte now has his eyes set on Fiorentina midfielder Milan Badelj. There is a high chance that the Italian would be sanctioning a move for the 27-year-old in January to strengthen the Chelsea midfield and push for the title.
According to Talk Sport, Badelj has only over 18 months left on his contract and has not finalised any contract talks with the Italian side yet. Indications are clear he is considering other options from other clubs. Consequently, Fiorentina have been forced to think about cashing in on the player.
A number of clubs are ready to take him off their hands. Italian dailies are reporting Chelsea are leading the way in the chase for the midfielder’s signature. Given his contract situation, it is reported that Badelj could be available for as little as £9m.
Chelsea are known to over splash on players and the small price tag on Badelj isn’t going to be a repellent in any way. Conte is known to be an admirer of Badelj’s abilities during his Juventus days and considering his recent reorganised tactics at the club, many new faces are expected in the winter transfer window.
For his build, Badelj looks a pretty decent candidate for the Premier League playing style. His physicality would suit the constant hassle a midfielder has to take on in the top flight English football. The Croat had a good Euro 2016 campaign earlier this year and has proved his credentials in the Serie A as well.
Badelj can play in the central midfield as well as in the defensive midfield role, which makes him similar to Nemanja Matic and N’Golo Kanté. With Fabregas injured and Oscar out of form, Conte is looking for options and could even sell some of the players who aren’t playing at the moment. Premier League is a hectic competition making it mandatory for every team to have a good squad depth.
Badelj has superior skills in ball interception, passing and tackling, which are all a manager looks for in a central midfielder. He is also known for his concentration, which makes him a midfield leader. He has an affinity towards shooting from distance which could also come in handy from cleared out set pieces.
He has made 8 appearances for Fiorentina this season and has already bagged 1 goal. He has a pass percentage of 87.9 which is pretty impressive and could make him a valuable inclusion in the Chelsea squad.
Chelsea are back on track after a terrible season last year and under Conte, the Blues certainly look more organised and disciplined in all the positions. However, not all players seem to fit in Conte’s style play and the Blues could look for some new faces in January.
