The transfer window this summer is yet to put a smile on the faces of Chelsea fans as the club and the squad is currently unsettled. They are set to replace Antonio Conte with Maurizio Sarri but have taken far too long to announce the Italian. They are also busy looking at potential transfer targets for this window and are ready to make a move for a few such stars.
One such player now on their radar is Aleksandr Golovin. Born and brought up in Kaltan, Russia, the 22-year old started his youth career with CSKA Moscow and broke into the senior side in 2014. He established himself in the first team from his second season at the club and has already made 113 appearances for the Russian giants, picking up 13 goals and 11 assists.
He was in fine form last season, where he registered seven goals and six assists in all competitions and has carried that form into the World Cup, picking up a goal and two assists in two group stage games so far.
A central midfielder by trait, Golovin can play in almost every role in the final third to equal effect. He was used as a part of a 5-man midfield in a 3-5-2 system at Moscow and was given a free role, where he was effective just outside the opposition box.
Strong, quick and technically gifted, Golovin is a complete footballer, capable of putting in match-winning performances consistently. He is adept at breaking up play to win the ball back, while his vision and technique to find his teammates in space makes him much more dangerous. He is smart in hold up play, draws fouls in dangerous areas and is a player who has a bright future at the highest level.
Reports suggest that Juventus are hot on his heels and made a €15m bid recently, which was rejected immediately. CSKA Moscow are reportedly holding on for a fee of €25m, and Chelsea are now leading the race for his signature, that is after they sign Sarri. So is he worth the fuss?
The Blues have N Golo Kante as the prime midfielder at the moment but his partners in Tiemoue Bakayoko and Danny Drinkwater have not done enough to warrant a place in the first team next season. Cesc Fabregas only adds creativity but reduces the stability in the side, and that is what makes Golovin and immediate requirement at Stamford Bridge.
With the current options for Chelsea, the Russian ace will walk into the first team and will partner Kante, adding great dynamism to the side in the middle of the park. He is showing in the World Cup what he is capable of at the highest stage and at just €25m, is an absolute steal for the Blues.
