Chelsea’s first team playing the way they are and achieving what they have achieved has seen them perched at the top of the table with a healthy 8 points gap between them and the 2nd placed team. But it also means that the players who were not included in the first team which started playing such a marvellous brand of football will be having certain reservations of whiling their time on the bench.
While the youngsters will be aware of the stage they are in, the same cannot be said of the senior lot. While John Terry is nearing his retirement, Ivanovic is someone who is reportedly looking for a move-out. He was woeful last season and is understandably surplus to Conte’s requirement. And in such a situation, looking for a move away seems the most plausible option as the Serbian still has some years of football left in him.
And with Antonio Conte only having Victor Moses in the right-wingback role, replacements are the order of the day. Let us take a look at 3 players the Blues could target to fill the potential gap.
NELSON SEMEDO (BENFICA)
Chelsea have joined Manchester United in their pursuit of Benfica right-back Nelson Semedo and are determined to add the right back to their squad. According to the reports, Nelson Semedo will cost Chelsea around £35m.
Semedo has spent his entire professional career at the Estadio da Luz, making 42 senior appearances for Benfica, and Chelsea are more than capable of triggering his release clause.
At the age of 23, he has already established himself as one of the brightest prospects at right-back. His style has been likened to Dani Alves. A great dribbler and a really solid crosser of the ball, he is known to support the attack and push forward often.
SERGE AURIER (PSG)
The 23-year old is considered one of Europe’s most exciting right-back. The Ivorian is a fine athlete and is known more for his attacking exploits. His domineering performance against Arsenal in the group stages of the Champions League has made him an even more known face in England.
He is mainly known for his contributions higher up the pitch but he also possesses enough defensive attributes and his willingness to run, along with his physique helps him out in that respect.
But the player has a record of being a trouble-maker and needs to be reined in. However, Conte will back himself to bring the best out of a promising player.
BACARY SAGNA (MANCHESTER CITY)
A surprising choice but a logical one in the short term. Bacary Sagna has been a dependable and formidable warrior for City after moving from Arsenal and has also fulfilled his desire of winning trophies.
But a chance to extend that and remain in England will certainly be enticing for him. His contract is due to expire and it is unlikely that Guardiola will be renewing it. He will be ideal as a backup for Moses and his ability to play at centre-back will enhance Conte’s options.
