As Chelsea look to bolster their defensive unit ahead of next season, they have identified Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori as a viable option. According to TuttoSport, the Blues are interested in adding him to their ranks in the summer.
Riccardo Calafiori’s rising stakes
A product of Roma, Riccardo Calafiori struggled to get going despite breaking into the first team. Hence, he moved to Basel before Bologna signed him last summer. In his debut season only, the player managed to impress everyone with his displays on the field.
Calafiori featured in 37 games this season, netting twice and providing five assists. He averaged 1.6 tackles, 1.7 interceptions, and 2.5 clearances per game (stats via whoscored). He is currently one of the best defenders in the Serie A league.
The Italian mainly plays as a centre-back but was also used in the left-back position at times. As a defender, he is good with the ball at his feet and delivers accurate passes. He is also an intelligent reader of the game with tackling being another one of his key strengths.
Chelsea Are Pushing Hard to Sign Riccardo Calafiori
Chelsea are in the market looking for a reliable defender as veteran Thiago Silva has left the club as a free agent. The arrival of Riccardo Calafiori could be a good move as he will add a lot of value and depth to the backline for next season.
The 22-year-old has proven his worth in the Serie A league and has all the traits to perform well in the English league. He can be a long-term solution to the defensive woes. However, it seems like the player has made up his mind to join Juventus in the summer to reunite with Thiago Motta.
Hence, the Blues will have to convince the youngster to acquire his services apart from negotiating with Bologna. Reportedly, the Calafiori should cost somewhere around €22m. The money wouldn’t be an issue for the English club.
