Amongst all of the accolades coming their way, Chelsea have seen one of their most promising players fall down the pecking order. The brilliance of the first team and the achievement of the desired results has taken the attention away from the young Kurt Zouma who was touted to have his breakthrough season this year. And with Conte traditionally preferring 3-men at the back, it was expected that Zouma will be the natural successor to John Terry. But Chelsea went and brought back David Luiz and installed him at the heart of the defence. And Zouma’s injury saw Azpilicueta used on the right-hand side of the 3-man defence and the Spaniard impressed heavily, effectively shutting down any immediate return route for the Frenchman.
And with the youngster now getting fidgety with every passing week, there is a strong indication of a loan or permanent move for him. He has categorically stated his desire to play regularly and he cannot be blamed for wanting that at this age.
‘For the moment, I’m waiting, I’m happy the team is winning, even if at a moment in time, I’m going to have to play if I want to achieve my objectives and get back into the France team.
With the possibility of Chelsea getting in a new face at the end of the season, let us take a look at 3 destinations of the young powerhouse defender.
REAL MADRID
A massive leap, if it ever comes about. Los Blancos have had world-class players playing for them over the years, whatever the position might be. With Sergio Ramos, Varane and Pepe, they have one of the most intimidating backlines in Europe. But with Pepe departing for the Far East in the summer, there is a vacancy and Zidane might have a look at his countryman and he will prefer a young player who can be moulded into something more lethal.
BARCELONA
Two diametrically different teams when it comes to approach and the type of player they typically look for. But what is always common is the undoubted quality on offer from the players. And while he may have had his ups and downs in the short career of his, he possesses all the attributes to make it big. Barcelona will most likely see Mascherano leave at the end of the season and Zouma can slot in and look to establish himself at Nou Camp.
BOURNEMOUTH
Yes, a bit of a shock after the aforementioned teams. There is every chance that Chelsea will not look to sell one of their future superstars and in that case, a loan move and especially to a club in England seems to be plausible. The successful nature of Nathan Ake’s loan deal and Wilshere’s ongoing deal shows Bournemouth in a positive light as far as a destination for players is concerned. The Cherries need defenders and if the Blues are willing to loan him out, a move to Bournemouth is a good option.
