In a recent report, CalcioNapoli24 has revealed that Chelsea are leading the chase for Villarreal full-back Alfonso Pedraza this summer. It is believed that the Blues could face competition in the form of Napoli but are currently in pole position to acquire the services of the Spanish defender during this summer transfer window (via CalcioNapoli24).
Pedraza’s Impressive Campaign In Spanish Football
Pedraza enjoyed a successful season with the Spanish outfit as he produced several eye-catching performances on the left side of Unai Emery’s defence. His impressive contributions helped the Yellow Submarine win the UEFA Europa League trophy last month.
The 25-year-old appeared in 44 matches for the Spanish club last season, netting two goals and providing four assists in all competitions. The Spanish sensation deserves a pat on the back for averaging 1.3 tackles, 1.2 interceptions, 1.1 clearances, 0.8 shots, 0.9 key passes and 0.8 dribbles per 90 minutes in La Liga and the Europa League. He has also been tidy when distributing the ball from the left flank based on his pass success rate of 79.5% in both those competitions (stats via whoscored).
Pedraza’s current contract at the Estadio de la Cerámica runs out in the summer of 2025, so the Blues would have to make a sizable bid to stand a chance of landing him in this off-season. The Spanish left-back has what it takes to become a regular starter under Thomas Tuchel’s tutelage at Stamford Bridge.
What Will Pedraza Bring To Stamford Bridge?
Pedraza is a quick and agile left-back who can make some energetic runs down the left flank. The Spanish talent has proven his worth as a capable defender at the back as he has got excellent defensive awareness that helps him sense the danger quickly and win the ball back for his side.
The 14-time Spain Under-21 international can shoot the ball with power from long range and did well to add some goals and assists to his game in the previous campaign. Pedraza is primarily a left-back but can also be used in an advanced role as a left-winger or operate as a wing-back down the left flank if needed.
Thus, we can expect him to bring some bite and steel to Tuchel’s squad. Pedraza will add some serious competition for Marcos Alonso and Ben Chilwell in the race to secure a regular starting spot in the Chelsea first team next season. Moreover, he will also enhance the overall depth of the West London club’s squad that could help them cope with injuries, suspensions and fixture congestion better in the future.
At 25, the Spaniard is on the verge of entering the prime years of his playing career, so the Blues will fancy making the most out of his talents if they can find a way to bring him to the English capital before the start of the new campaign.
