It’s been a tough summer for Chelsea in terms of transfer business. They have missed a number of targets and are still struggling to get a few deals done before the summer window is slammed shut by the end of August. According to renowned Italian journalist Gianluca di Marzio, the Blues are now weighing up a move for Inter Milan prodigy Cesare Casadei.
#Calciomercato | Il @ChelseaFC ci riprova per #Casadei: avviati i primi contatti, presto potrebbe arrivare la prima offerta all’#Inter https://t.co/hUuG2yKV9b
— Gianluca Di Marzio (@DiMarzio) July 29, 2022
The West London hotshots are already in talks with the Serie A giants for their teenage sensation. The Ravenna-born youngster began his career with Cervia, followed by Cesena before being roped in by the Nerazzurri four years back. Although his senior debut is yet to happen, the 19-year-old midfield prospect has done enough to grab the attention of the English giants.
Chelsea, known for acquiring and developing top-notch young talents, were made aware of Casadei’s availability when the two clubs negotiated Romelu Lukaku’s transfer. He could have been a part of any potential player plus cash deal for the wantaway Belgian; however, it ended in a season-long loan with a fee of around £6.8m (plus add-ons).
The Inter starlet has represented Italy in several youth ranks and is currently featuring for their U19s on a regular basis. He has a strong physique, great vision as well as the ability to orchestrate the show from the middle of the park. Predominantly a ‘number 8’, Casadei has exhibited his adaptability both as a ‘number 10’ and deep-lying playmaker.
Although the Italian heavyweights included him in a deal while chasing the signing of former Torino centre-half Gleison Bremer, a buy-back clause was inserted as he is rated highly by the San Siro club. The talks did not materialize, though, when Juventus hijacked the Brazilian right under their nose.
Why Chelsea Should Tie Him Down
Chelsea, meanwhile, are having an ageing midfield with both Jorginho and N’Golo Kante in their thirties. Mateo Kovačić remains the only star who is enjoying a blistering run in the centre of the pitch, and the manager, therefore, must rope in long-term alternatives to the veterans.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek made his mark at times, but the Englishman failed to cement a regular role due to form and fitness reasons. Mason Mount and Conor Gallagher are more effective as midfield attackers, whereas Billy Gilmour has slipped down the pecking order despite showing immense potential prior to his futile Norwich loan. It’s time to add more firepower centrally and Casadei, with such a high ceiling, could be a shrewd piece of business for the forthcoming future.