Chelsea have endured an uneventful start to the campaign under new manager Frank Lampard. Their inability sign new players until next summer has taken a huge toll on their overall performance, with the Blues significantly lacking creativity and firepower up top.
While they are likely to struggle during the remainder of the campaign, they should keep tabs on Borussia Dortmund star Raphael Guerreiro this season. The midfielder was linked with a move away from Bundesliga this summer, but a move did not materialise. That being said, he could be available in the transfer market once again next summer.
Guerreiro can offer versatility
Guerreiro is generally advertised as a left-sided midfielder. But, he can cover a lot of ground, meaning he can provide tactical versatility to Lampard next season.
The Portuguese international was mainly utilised as a left-back at Lorient. As a result, he is quite comfortable playing in that position. Guerreiro has featured as a left-back for Dortmund in recent weeks, deputising for the injured Nico Schulz. He notably starred in the draw with Barcelona last week.
Moreover, the 25-year-old can operate as a central midfielder as well as an attacking midfielder. Even though Guerreiro is more comfortable featuring on the left flank, his ability to play down the middle and even as a left-back, highlight the supreme versatility that could benefit Chelsea next season.
A creative essence
What makes Guerreiro such a unique talent is his incredible technical prowess. Indeed, the Portuguese prospect is very good when it comes to one-touch passing. He can quickly formulate the best passing option, thanks to his ability to read the game well.
Guerreiro has a telepathic understanding with the likes of Marco Reus and Paco Alcacer which has helped Borussia Dortmund become a strong force in attack under Lucien Favre.
Aside from his quick play, the ex-Lorient star can also distribute the ball accurately, which, in turn, allows him to feature in central midfield if needed. He can get to the byline and whip in crosses as well – making him an ideal fit for the Premier League.
Proficiency from set-pieces
Guerreiro is very inventive when he gets a chance to deliver crosses from corners and indirect free-kicks in the final third. The 25-year-old is proficient when trying to deliver an inviting ball into the box, from dead-ball situations.
He can also go for goal as well from a 25-yard range while his deliveries from corners are always a joy to watch. This efficiency from set-pieces could significantly boost Chelsea’s overall productivity in the final third. Hence, the Blues should consider making a move for the Dortmund star next summer.
