According to a recent report by L’Equipe, Premier League giants Chelsea are being credited with apparent interest to acquire the services of Paris Saint-Germain’s Belgian international right-back Thomas Meunier. The Blues are claimed to be on the lookout for reinforcements across a variety of positions this summer, with Frank Lampard keen on strengthening his squad for next season.
It has been suggested that the 28-year-old is out of contract at the Parc des Princes at the end of the current league season, meaning that the Blues would be able to snap him up for free if Lampard truly desires. The report has further clarified that both Manchester United and London rivals Tottenham are keen on the right-back, while Chelsea are considering signing Thomas Meunier too. Tottenham Hotspur are likely to be the most eager to get him though, as Jose Mourinho seemingly remains unconvinced by Serge Aurier’s exploits down that side.
What Would Thomas Meunier Add To This Chelsea Side?
The full-back has been a part of the Belgian national team for quite a while, meaning that he has got the quality to perform at the highest level. Capable of bombarding down the flank and delivering beautifully angled crosses into the box, Meunier offers excellent intensity as well as composure in the final third. The 28-year-old is adept at link-up play, while he also possesses the ability to pick out that killer threaded pass from the wide areas.
The Belgian offers a good variety of attributes which can be useful across multiple situations, and for any team in search of an attack-minded yet balanced right-back, Meunier would be a good option. The PSG man has played in 16 Ligue 1 appearances this season before the postponement of the season. At the same time, his overall record for the Parisian club reads 13 goals and 21 assists from 128 first-team appearances.
What Is Chelsea’s Current Right-Back Situation?
Cesar Azpilicueta is quite possibly the longest serving player at Stamford Bridge at this point, and the fact that he’s still here and performing is a clear indicator of the quality he provides. While there have been certain questions raised about his attacking ability, the introduction of Reece James into the side this season has thrown light on the situation.
The former Wigan loanee is known for delivering the most delectable crosses in the league, often seen playing balls that Trent Alexander-Arnold would’ve been proud of. With both options open to Lampard, it’s safe to say that there’s no need for a new right-back acquisition.
Chelsea Are Considering Signing Thomas Meunier: Should Lampard Go For It?
If there’s one position that Chelsea fans needn’t be worried about for a long time to come, then it’s probably right-back. Azpilicueta is still only 30, meaning that he has ample time to mould Reece James into the ideal Chelsea full-back. There’s no denying that the Spaniard, who is also the Chelsea captain, will have a considerable part to play in the coming seasons. Still, with a name like James around, it wouldn’t make any sense for Chelsea to sign a 28-year-old Belgian international, even if they’re able to get him on a free transfer.
