Chelsea fans will certainly be a happy bunch right now. Antonio Conte’s magic has taken down the whole of the Premier League as the Blues sit comfortably at the top of the table after 15 game weeks. We will see the Blues travelling to Sunderland on Wednesday which seems like three points for the London giants, at least on paper. However, the fans will be concerned with the fact that one of their star players is attracting substantial interest from abroad.
Metro claims that Cesc Fabregas is a major target for Serie A giants Roma who want the Spaniard to push Juventus for the title. The Spanish international has struggled to get regular game time at Chelsea under Conte as he is clearly not good enough when it comes to his defensive duties and in Conte’s 3-4-3 system, you need that. Chelsea might find it hard to keep a player of Fabregas’ calibre unless they offer him more time on the pitch and should look for replacements.
Here are three players they could go for in order to replace Fabregas.
Saul Niguez
Having a player like Saul Niguez at the club is a blessing for any team in the world. The 22-year-old is as versatile as one could be. He is naturally a number eight but is doing so well for Simeone’s side from the right flank.
The youngster can also play as a number six or a number ten and even as a centre back. Compact defensively, strong technically and tactically and a player who can score and create goals, Niguez can become a huge success under Conte.
Axel Witsel
There are very few midfielders in the world right now who tick every box you want to see in a midfielder and Axel Witsel is one of them. The 27-year-old is a complete midfielder. He can defend, can attack, pick out a 40-yard pass, is strong in the air, and he can tackle. On top of that, Witsel is an experienced midfielder and possesses excellent ability to read the game. Witsel has all the ingredients to succeed in Conte’s 3-4-3 system.
Radja Nainggolan
If Chelsea let Fabregas move to Roma, they should go for Nainggolan who would be a dream signing for the Blues. The 28-year-old Belgian can be the ideal partner of N’Golo Kanté in midfield with his excellent tenacity and industry.
The Belgian international covers every blade of grass on the pitch and gives his everything for the team. The Belgian is a strong tackler and does provide a solid defensive cover. If Chelsea indeed let Fabregas join Roma, they should go for the Belgian star.
