Former Premier League champions Chelsea may have managed to lift the FA Cup title last season, but their transfer window now is one of the serious implications. The Blues not only need to add to a squad that seemed lethargic at best last season but also need a shepherd looking over the herd at Stamford Bridge.
Their search for a replacement from Antonio Conte has not stopped them from scouting for potential transfer targets and one player now on their radar is Thomas Lemar.
A transfer target for Liverpool and Arsenal last summer, Lemar produced electric performances week in, week out in the 2016-17 campaign, helping AS Monaco to the Ligue 1 title. He was in full demand last summer but the French giants managed to keep him at the club for another season. They are now ready to let him go at the right price and value him at around €70m-€90m. So should Chelsea make a move for him?
A versatile attacker who can play on either wing or as a playmaker in a no.10 role, Lemar is a gifted player, with great vision and technique which allow him to create chances galore in the final third. He is constantly in search of space, pulling defenders away from goal, making space for his teammates. He is also effective over a dead ball but is at his best in possession of the ball in and around the box.
His close control along with his ability to hold on to the ball for long periods, before finding the pass, makes him much more dangerous. He is smart with his movements, is happy to fall back and defend when needed and can also test the keeper from long distance.
At just 22, the French international has 115 Ligue 1 appearances, where he has picked seven goals and 28 assists and has already established himself at the highest level. He has 3 goals in 11 appearances for his national side and is a part of the squad that will fight for the World Cup in Russia, starting later this month.
His price tag might be something to ponder over, as signing Lemar will mean that Chelsea will have to break their transfer record. But at the moment, the Blues are in desperate need of some inspiration and need signings like Lemar to bring some excitement to the squad next season.
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He will probably replace one of Pedro or Willian, with neither showing enough form last season. He is a long-term option for Chelsea, who will have to fight with Barcelona for his signature. So do you think he is worth the fuss?
