Latest reports emerging on Friday have suggested that former Chelsea skipper John Terry is likely to take a U-turn and accept offers to continue playing in England after the West London club have reportedly hinted that he is not getting any new contract extension at the end of the season.
Though the 36-year-old had made it clear earlier in January that he wouldn’t play for any other English club when Bournemouth came approaching after Chelsea called back Nathan Ake from his loan stint, things have changed on that front it seems. The former England skipper might listen to offers from other league clubs and midtable clubs now.
The London club are willing to offer him a coaching role at Stamford Bridge as his enormous experience at the top level could be really useful. The Blues manager hasn’t ever hidden his admiration for his talent as a defender and would surely love to have Terry alongside him in developing the players.
However, we think Terry still has a few more years left in him as a player and he would want to end it playing regularly somewhere than just fade away on the bench. It surely means a pay cut for the centre-half from his current plump wage of £90,000 per week, though.
Here are the 3 clubs, Terry could opt to sign for-
West Bromwich Albion
Tony Pulis is known to bring out the best from even the most mediocre defender and with the Wales manager looking to beef up at the back with the club aiming for Europa League qualification, Terry could really be a great addition at the Hawthorns.
The Baggies’ style of play would perfectly suit Terry with his dragged feet now. Pulis believes in compact defending and the way he has played Gareth McAuley so efficiently even at his age is a prime example of it. Pulis is also eyeing major ship-ins next season as Albion aspire to finish in a high position in the league table.
Bournemouth
Though Terry has already rejected a move to the Vitality Stadium in January, Eddie Howe can really convince him for a move if the Cherries manage to finish in a respectable position at the end of the season. After the departure of Nathan Ake, Howe has really struggled to get his back-line stable. And now with doubts regarding their star defender, Steve Cook’s future, the manager would welcome him with open hands. Although Bournemouth will not be his first priority.
Crystal Palace
If Big Sam manages to keep Crystal Palace out of relegation at the end of the season then the London club could be one of the best places for Terry to finish his career at. After Sakho’s brilliant start to his loan stint, Palace are bound to make a final move for the French centre-half and Terry could have a solid partnership with him. Although with the likes of Scott Dann and Tomkins to compete with, it won’t be easy for him.
