Antonio Conte is one of the many managers in England that have an eye on Belgium starlet Youri Tielemans for a move this summer. The Blues are within sight of the Premier League title this season but the manager is determined to make some changes this summer. This has seen him linked with some superstars and he reportedly wants Tielemans to partner French midfielder N Golo Kante for Chelsea next season. But who is Tielemans and what will he add to the squad at the Stamford Bridge?
A central midfielder by trait, Tielemans has gained immense popularity this season, thanks to his consistent strikes from outside the box for his club Anderlecht in the Belgian domestic league. He can be described as a player who loves to have the ball at his feet and make things happen. At just 19, he is already smart enough to control the game and is destined to huge things in the future.
Known for his dribbling and shooting abilities, Tielemans is a slightly attacking midfielder with enviable concentration at the back. He never shies away from the dirty work facing his goal and is adept at shutting shop when needed. At his age, he is a bundle of energy and covers a lot of ground, which helps his team outnumber their opponents in the middle of the park.
His incredible return of 18 goals and 12 assists in 45 games in all competitions this season, makes him one of the most productive midfielders in Europe at the moment and it does not come as a surprise that English league leaders are having an eye on him.
Conte has used N Golo Kante extensively this season while Nemanja Matic and Cesc Fabregas have partnered him according to the opponent. Even if neither player leaves the club, Chelsea needs another number in midfield to compete on all four fronts and Tielemans is as good an option as any.
Some Chelsea fans might want Conte to spend on a more established star but Tielemans is an exciting option who can come good in the future. He is still learning the physical part of the game and may be outdone in the Premier League next season but at just 19, he has plenty of time to learn and adjust and is sure to become one of the best in Europe.
The likes of Liverpool, Everton, Tottenham Hotspur and AS Monaco are all interested in his signature but Conte seems to be convinced and wants to spend on him this summer and there are hardly any reasons why he should not. Do you think Tielemans is a perfect fit at Chelsea?