After failing to bring the top young German defender last summer, Chelsea will once again try to strike a deal with Hoffenheim for defender Niklas Süle. The Blues’ technical director Michael Emenalo has reportedly identified the defender as an ideal candidate for Antonio Conte’s back-three.
The Blues had lodged a £20m bid for the 21-year-old, but his club had rejected it back then asking them to increase the price, which could be somewhere around £30m. Chelsea opted for Luiz then and it has panned out nicely for the Italian boss so far.
However, Emenalo has apparently continued their scouting for the German and is fairly impressed with the youngster and could have another go. Chelsea will have to fight with the likes of Liverpool and AC Milan in securing his signature, though.
Süle has played a big part in Hoffenheim’s unbeaten streak this season. They are in the Champions League spots, six points behind leaders Bayern Munich, having drawn against BVB last night. Although Hoffenheim are under no pressure to sell their best defensive player, Chelsea’ improved bid might test their resolve.
Süle is a giant of a defender. He is 6ft 5ins tall, strong, quick for his size and comfortable on the ball with either foot. He looks like the ideal central defender in the Premier League and Chelsea will definitely have to go big for him, given Conte’s admiration for good defenders. He made his debut for Germany’s senior team in August.
Süle has shown much more maturity compared to his young age. The German is a very capable tackler and good in the intercepting the ball as well. He reads the game well and could be the real deal for Conte for his back three.
Süle could bring good stability to Chelsea’s back four who are likely to face a crisis after Ivanovic leaves and Terry retires next season. Lack of playing time for Ivanovic has already brought up rumours of the Serbian defender looking for first team chances elsewhere.
However, one big concern for Süle will be his young age. At 21, the player is prone to committing some silly fouls in dangerous positions and would need to improve his concentration. It is understandable that with a bit more experience there would be an increase in maturity as well. With Conte nurturing the player, he would acquire it fast keep up the rate of his development and growing reputation.
Chelsea were linked with many top-class defenders in the previous transfer window and if Süle makes it to Stamford Bridge, he will have a lot of expectations on his shoulders.
