Chelsea have reportedly upped their interest in Fiorentina star Milan Badelj. The Croatian midfielder is set to undergo contract talks with Fiorentina. The pivotal midfielders’ contract runs down at the end of the season and the club is hopeful of coming to an agreement in order to fend off interest from other suitors who could lure him away from Florence.
Badelj is a key man in the middle of the park for Fiorentina, who attracted interest from a number of Premier League clubs as well as AC Milan themselves.
Milan Badelj is a great passer of the ball with ability to control his team’s play. Standing in the midfield, he has done exceedingly well in Fiorentina colours, evidently proving why they want to keep hold of their talisman. He is a man known to step it up in the big games, scoring two crucial goals against Roma and Juventus last, both of which were winners.
The Zagreb born player has an impeccable right foot that can shoot at ease from distance. Both his goals last term were an indication of his vicious right foot. He is a prime example of the number 6 role and sticks to his task. He possesses a good energy to help break up play with his crunch sliders.
A move to Stamford Bridge would be an appreciation for his work at Fiorentina. But one can only see him playing second fiddle to likes of Bakayoko, Fabregas and Kante, all who are vying themselves a place in Conte’s main eleven. Although this would mean fewer games in his pocket, he is a solid back up for The Blues.
Chelsea’s Italian boss is well aware of Badelj’s game having watched him from afar in his tenure with Juventus. Chelsea have an added edge over other clubs in competing for the midfielders’ signature, given that they have done business with the Florence based side quite recently together with Conte’s influence.
First and foremost is Fiorentina’s contract situation with the ex Dinamo Zagreb star. If they can get him to pen a new deal, the transfer will be off the tables. Badelj admitted he snubbed interest from other clubs due to his coach Stefano Pioli, who let him free to make a decision regarding his future without pressurizing him.
It could also turn out to be an important factor in Badelj considering the contract offer pretty seriously. But given that it is difficult for any player to brush aside interests from top clubs, he might be on his way to the West London club if they come out calling for his services.
Do you think Conte should look to strengthen his midfield that is already overflowing with talent?
