Inter midfielder Joao Mario is apparently a hot prospect in the market once again, as it seems. Following his €40m move from Sporting last season, the midfielder has failed to impress in the Serie A and is struggling with lack of game-time this season.
Inter director Walter Sabatini has recently confirmed that the player is unhappy. “Joao has some issues with the lack of playing time,” Sabatini said. “We don’t want to lose him. He is our player and we want to keep him.”
According to recent reports, the Portuguese International is keen to leave the San Siro and is reportedly eyeing a move to England, with Manchester United and Chelsea showing significant interest on the midfielder.
Chelsea, in particular, could be hugely aided by the addition of Joao Mario. The Blues have failed to live up to their expectation this season, after a highly successful title-winning campaign last season. The lack of togetherness has been one of the main reasons behind their demise this term.
Especially with Willian, reportedly eyeing for a move away from the Stamford Bridge, Joao Mario’s acquisition could make a lot of sense for the London giants.
Joao Mario is a versatile midfielder who can play at a position in midfield. The Portuguese International has shown in the past that he can thrive in any condition thanks to his impressive work rate. He is also very agile in the centre of the pitch and would perfectly fit Antonio Conte’s setup in the midfield department.
Cesc Fabregas has been the main source of creativity for Chelsea but his lack of dynamism often becomes the telling factor in midfield. However, with the addition of Joao Mario, the Blues can once again have that fluidity in the offensive areas of the field. His remarkable work rate will help Antonio Conte forge a dynamic attacking unit, which can easily manipulate the opposition defence, something which they have duly lacked this season.
Unlike Willian, the former Sporting midfielder is also very good when it comes to the defensive department. His competitive nature of play is perfectly suited to the playing style of the Italian mastermind and therefore, the Blues should definitely make a move for the Portuguese international. However, former boss Jose Mourinho also rates the Portuguese very highly, meaning the London giants could face stiff competition from Manchester United for the signature of Joao Mario.