Arsenal. Barcelona. Chelsea. Next?
While no one knows the next destination (although he has been linked with West ham recently) of the Spanish midfielder, his previous record suggests it won’t be the most straightforward one. Credited with bright starts to a season but the subsequent loss of form and influence has been a trademark of his career, more so after he pushed his way out of Arsenal.
While the jury is still out on this, he could never really match the heights of his far more talented midfield co-conspirators at Nou Camp. And while his start at Chelsea was perfect, he has since faded and is not even considered for 1st team action which is likely to pave the way to another transfer in Fabregas’s career.
While his choice of club will be interesting, today we will take a look at the 3 potential replacements Conte might look at to fill the gap.
CLAUDIO MARCHISIO
The Juventus player has three appearances for his club in all competitions this season after returning to full fitness. The 30-year old does not have age on his side and might relish one final challenge in his career if given the opportunity. With Conte discarding Cesc, it is evident he is not looking at a playmaker right now and his preference would be a defensively sound midfielder with a good technical ability. And he doesn’t have to look further than his former player.
The chemistry between the player and manager will help in a smooth transition and his inclusion will only make Chelsea stronger.
RAJDA NAINGOLLAN
The Roma midfielder was touted to be one of Conte’s first signings but the move failed to materialise and by the looks of it, the midfielder is happy to be staying back in Italy.
But in football, one cannot rule out a move and any possible advances from Conte with the Chelsea side truly bouncing might tempt the Belgian to join the likes of Hazard and Courtois at Stamford Bridge.
His all-action and combative style of play and his ability to impact both ends of the pitch will be a welcome addition especially next season when Chelsea will hope to be involved in the UCL as well.
AXEL WITSEL
Another Belgian who has been on Chelsea’s radar for quite some time. He will lend a physical presence in midfield and many believe his passing and technical ability is better than Manchester United midfielder Fellaini.
His strength in the air will be a big plus and increase Chelsea’s domination, primarily in the box. His dribbling skills enable him to break forward and lend support to the attack. The presence of the other Belgian stars will help in a smooth transition if a move does resurface.
