Various reports suggest that Chelsea boss Antonio Conte is plotting a move for PSG starlet Marco Verratti this January as a part of the major revamp the Italian has planned. The bid will have £43million plus Cesc Fabregas to bring the 24-year-old defensive midfielder to Stamford Bridge.
With Fabregas losing the manager’s confidence, many clubs are trying to get the Spaniard this January. But making him a bargain for Verratti seems to be a clever option considering the latter’s defensive attributes are superior to the former’s.
The Chelsea boss is apparently a big fan of his fellow Italian and has worked together during his stint in the national team. After a verbal spat between Verratti with Paris Saint-Germain manager, when he was substituted in a match few weeks back, big European clubs are on high alert.
Reports have also emerged that the Blaugranas have been watching the player closely. Hence, it would not be easy for Chelsea to land him in England.
Marco Verratti could actually be a good buy for Chelsea as the Blues are looking for a perfect backup and long-term replacement for their pivotal duo of Matic and N’Golo Kante. Chelsea at the moment plays two in the middle with two wing backs in Marcos Alonso and Victor Moses.
With Verratti’s strong passing, dribbling abilities, the talented midfielder is also able to provide some incisive passes from the middle. His qualities suit Chelsea’s style of play where the team looks forward to playing the ball in good positions to the top three attackers Eden Hazard, Diego Costa and Pedro.
Verratti’s ability to hold the ball and give penetrating passes makes him a strong asset for Conte. The fact that he is only 24 years old makes him the perfect long term prospect Chelsea. Verratti’s beautiful layoffs are sometimes a treat to watch and he is not afraid to go for a tackle.
The only weakness Verratti has, which could stop him from becoming a great player is his lack of discipline. He is often found losing concentration at games, which sometimes prove costly. His lack of height is also a big issue if compared to the other defensive midfielders in the English Premier League. But with Conte knowing the player pretty well, he could nurture him to be a good midfielder.
Zlatan’s performance has shown that the French league is not quite at the level of English top flight football and Verratti would have to develop himself fast to adapt the playing style.
