The doubts over the future of Antonio Conte will certainly affect Chelsea’s chances of signing top class players this summer. They are looking at Maurizio Sarri as a possible replacement even as they continue to scout for additions to the first team this summer. One such name Chelsea are now interested in is Daniele Rugani.
Having broken into the senior side as a teenager at Juventus under current Chelsea manager Conte, the 23-year old was also handed his first international cap by the Italian manager, who thinks highly of him. He has seven appearances for the national side but only established himself as a consistent defender under Sarri, in his time on loan at Empoli.
So it makes a lot of sense for Chelsea to try and bring Rugani to London but what does he add to the squad at Stamford Bridge?
A centre-back who is comfortable with the ball at his feet, Rugani is a strong and athletic defender, who loves to dominate his box. He is an excellent passer and rarely loses the ball at the back while his ability to read passes and step up to break them, setting his team up on counters is his biggest strength.
He is a bit reckless at times, giving away needless fouls but at just 23, he is only going to improve as a footballer and has the potential to turn into one of the best in the game. He has over 130 Serie A appearances and is already an established star, who would probably walk into Chelsea’s first team at the moment.
Chelsea have David Luiz and Gary Cahill as senior CBs in the side, both of who are not expected to start games regularly next season. Antonio Rudiger has been decent while Andreas Christensen has hardly put a foot wrong. But both players have shown their weaknesses and could be dropped to the bench for Rugani.
Cesar Azpilicueta has been the best defender for the Blues for a while now but he is naturally a right-back and will play there in a four-man backline. So signing a centre-back is important for Chelsea this summer and the 23-year old fits the bill perfectly.
Read More: Chelsea Could Land Exciting Serie A Ace If They Sign Sarri: What Will He Bring To London?
Reports suggest that Chelsea have added Rugani to their wish list for this summer and have already opened talks with him over a move this summer. He is rated at just £26m and at that price he is an absolute steal and a ‘no-brainer’ for the Blues.
