The uncertainty over the future of Antonio Conte at Stamford Bridge is certainly having an impact on Chelsea’s chances in the transfer market this summer. The Blues are desperate to replace the Italian with Maurizio Sarri but are yet to make it official. In the meanwhile, they are already preparing for life next season, as they continue to scout for potential transfer targets this summer.
One such player Chelsea are now extensively linked with is Alex Telles.
A left-back by trait, the 25-year old, born and brought up in Brazil, started his youth career with Juventude but has now established himself as one of the most consistent players in his role in the Portuguese top flight at the moment. He spent time at Gremio, Galatasaray and Inter Milan before joining FC Porto in 2016 and in just two seasons at the club, he is a regular starter for the side.
He was a part of the team that lost to Liverpool in the Champions League last season and reports suggest that Jurgen Klopp was impressed with his performances and has been scouting him since January. Chelsea are also interested in his services and it is understood that he has a £35m release clause in his contract, that can be activated this summer.
Both teams are ready to meet his valuation. So is he an option for the Blues?
Tailor-made for the English style of play, Telles is a strong and athletic full-back with a keen eye for a defence breaking pass at the other end. He is strong in the air and is rarely bullied off the ball while his ability over a dead ball makes him all the more dangerous.
He gives away needless fouls at times, but that is mostly because of his ability to read the game and cut off passes, making him an all-around defender. He has three goals and 13 assists in the Liga NOS last season, while his numbers at the back are also similarly impressive. He is a complete footballer, and at just 25, will only get better.
Read More: Chelsea Could Land Exciting Serie A Ace If They Sign Sarri: What Will He Bring To London?
However, Chelsea spent on Emerson Palmieri in January and have Marcos Alonso, both of whom are effective options on the left flank at the back. Both players are more effective as wing-backs and so is Telles, so it makes very little sense for the Blues to spend £35m on the Porto man when they have other areas of the squad they need to improve on.
He may be a star for the future but is not a real necessity at Stamford Bridge at the moment. But do you think Chelsea should gamble with Telles?
