Although Chelsea possess one of the best defensive records in the Premier League this season, their lack of potential backup to their back three is no secret and Antonio Conte is desperate to bring in defenders this January. Consequently, a host of them are being linked with a move to Stamford Bridge and the latest one to emerge is Fenerbahce defender Simon Kjaer.
According to the latest reports in the media, Chelsea boss Conte is a huge admirer of the 27-year-old and has made him one of the top transfer targets this month. The boss sees the Danish international as a perfect option to fit in his three at the back system, which has hugely spurred the Blues’ chances to lead the Premier League this season.
Fenerbahce, however, have denied any such claims of an offer from the London club and have also expressed their unwillingness to sell one of their star players at the moment. He is contracted to the club until June 2019.
But given the financial prowess Chelsea have, it wouldn’t be difficult for the club to lure the player from the Turkish league. A proposed bid of £15m is lodged by the Blues, and they could definitely extend that to the limits if Conte deems the player that good.
Kjaer has scored three goals for Fenerbahce this season winning 13 tackles with a success rate of 54%. He has made 17 interceptions, 40 clearances and three blocks. A centre-back by nature, Kjaer is equally adept in the defensive midfield. He is brilliant from direct set-pieces and has a great knack for timely tackles.
An academy product of FC Midtjylland, Kjaer has come up the ranks of clubs like US Palermo, VfL Wolfsburg, AS Roma and LOSC Lille, before he moved to Fenerbahce in 2015-16.
Fenerbahce are just five points below league leaders Medipol Basaksehir and they have progressed through to the group of 32 where they face FK Krasnodar in February. Dick Advocaat, the Fenerbahce boss, knows the importance of Kjaer to his side and is could play hardball unless Chelsea come up with a really good offer.
Chelsea faced their first Premier League defeat as their winning streak of 13 games was finally broken by Tottenham Hotspur. They clearly felt the tiredness kicking in during the hectic schedule of the Premier League, and not featuring in the UEFA Champions League this season could only pull Chelsea this long. Conte won’t be able to start the trio of Luiz, Cahill and Azpilicueta every game, though.
