Chelsea are in real danger of missing out on long-term target Steven N’Zonzi, as Serie A Champions Juventus have joined the race to land the Congo international and have even lined up a move, as per reports. The La Liga central midfielder has been one of the dominant players last season with numerous European clubs now aiming to get his signature this summer.
The Champions League finalists lost out yet again, this time against Real Madrid and manager Max Allegri believes Juventus’ weak defensive midfield was to blame for it. The team with the best defensive record was carved open time and again by Real Madrid’s star-studded attack as Juventus conceded four goals in the final itself.
Chelsea face a similar concern before next season as manager Antonio Conte prepares for his first Champions League campaign with the Blues. Although the squad seemed more or less perfect the last term with the boss hardly forced to make any changes, the departure of Nemanja Matic could change things. The Serbian was one of the rare weak links in the Chelsea squad, who looked inconsistent at times, and his clumsy display in the FA Cup final cost them the opportunity to make a double.
With N’Golo Kante doing all the hard work on one side, Conte is in search for some who could win the aerial duels from the middle of the park and distribute the ball well; attributes which have N’Zonzi written on them. The Sevilla midfielder has been a key figure for the La Liga side last season, who helped the side to finish fourth in the league.
At 196cm, he is clearly a huge presence in the most important area of the field. He has won 60% of his average duels last season and that blended with a superb 90% passing accuracy makes him one of the best candidates for the job. And his prior experience in the Premier League makes him an ideal option for Chelsea.
An academy product of SC Amiens, N’Zonzi made a move to England back in 2009 when Blackburn Rovers were in the Premier League. He spent three seasons with them, but couldn’t make a lasting impression. His style of physically dominating gameplay meant he had already caught Stoke City’s attention, and the Potters brought him in 2012.
But, that was not to be. The central midfielder, who is a more defensive minded, is more of a late bloomer and it is Sevilla who seemed to have got him at the right moment. Under Jorge Sampaoli, he was at his peak. If Conte does manage to bring him to Stamford Bridge, Chelsea could have an unbeatable midfield next season.
