According to a recent report by RMC Sport’s Mohamed Bouhafsi (translated by the Sun), Chelsea midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko is expected to join AS Monaco on a loan deal with an option to buy him permanently for £31.8m. The same source has also mentioned that the Pensioners are close to accepting the offer for the French midfield ace who went out on loan to play for AC Milan last season.
Bakayoko’s Frustrations In The Premier League Before Finding More Joy In The Serie A
Bakayoko has experienced a disappointing spell at Stamford Bridge since making a switch from AS Monaco in the summer of 2017. Thus, a return to his former club could benefit him as he would know what to expect in the French top-flight.
The 25-year-old made 42 appearances for AC Milan last season, scoring one goal while grabbing one assist across all competitions. On the defensive end, Bakayoko averaged 2.3 tackles, 1.6 interceptions and 1.4 clearances per game in the Serie A (stats via whoscored).
The Paris-born talent has also earned one international cap for France thus far. However, the Pensioners midfielder needs to improve his game a lot if he wants to represent his nation once again someday.
What Are The French Midfielder’s Best Attributes?
Bakayoko has incredible strength and stamina, which helps him work his socks off for his team in midfield. He takes an aggressive approach to the game and can make some vital interceptions for his side at the back. The former Ligue 1 star is a powerhouse at the centre of the park and can win a lot of 50-50 aerial duels due to his remarkable upper body strength.
A Loan Deal With An Option To Buy: Good Move For Everyone Involved?
Bakayoko’s departure won’t affect Frank Lampard’s first-team plans at all for this 2019-20 campaign. The Frenchman is surplus to requirements at the West London club and is in dire need of switching clubs to ensure regular game time in the coming years.
Chelsea can also save up some money by getting Bakayoko off their wage bill while Monaco will be getting one of their former stars at his prime if they can successfully get the deal over the line before the European transfer deadline on September 2nd. Hence, it is a deal that makes sense for everyone involved.
