According to a recent report by The Times (Paid Subscription Required), Premier League giants Chelsea are said to be eyeing up a loan move for the services of Uruguayan international striker Edinson Cavani. The Paris Saint-Germain attacker has been limited to a frustratingly low amount of playing time this season and he could be on his way out of the club this transfer window. With the veteran’s contract set to expire at the end of the season, a move away from the Parc De Princes seems likely.
The report suggests that the Blues are proposing a short-term loan deal which would cover the Uruguayan’s £360,000 wage until his contract expires at the end of the season. They will also be required to pay the Parisians a loan fee in the region of £5m.
Despite this though, it is claimed in the report that any deal would hinge on whether Lampard can offload French international striker Olivier Giroud for a satisfactory fee.
Why Do Chelsea Need To Sign A Striker In January?
The introduction of Tammy Abraham to the Chelsea first team this season has undoubtedly been a welcome change in terms of the striking position, especially when compared to all the struggles that they’ve faced over recent campaigns. Despite his resurgence as a player though, the Blues’ over-reliance on his prolific nature has caused them problems this season.
Inability to finish games off has been an issue, and the addition of another striker to compete with Abraham for the starting role is exactly what Chelsea need to reinvigorate the front-line. Michy Batshuayi doesn’t seem to be good enough to deliver in the Premier League on a regular basis. At the same time, Olivier Giroud’s time at Stamford Bridge is now obviously drawing to a gradual close. In terms of necessities, a new striker is sure to be right up there on Chelsea’s list.
Why They Shouldn’t Rush Into An Edinson Cavani Permanent Transfer?
The former Napoli striker is about to turn 33 in under a month, and wouldn’t be an astute investment by the London club. By loaning him, they can assess his footballing situation, while also getting a feel of the player’s technical and mental qualities, thereby allowing them the time to make an informed decision regarding his permanent transfer at the end of the season.
Also, the fact that he’s barely played for the Parisians could be a worrying factor for Lampard. Despite his exhilarating career goal record, the Uruguayan has featured just nine times in the Ligue 1 this season and is clearly eager to find his way out of Paris. Chelsea will surely do well to offer him that escape route, but signing him permanently could come back to bite them in the long run. After all, no one wants a re-run of the Morata saga.