Chelsea are reportedly edging closer to completing the signing of Fiorentina defender Marcos Alonso in a deal worth €25m.
It’s been a frustrating summer for Antonio Conte, as he has seen the club unsuccessfully pursue various defensive targets over the last month or two.
With N’Golo Kante and Michy Batshuayi still his only two summer signings, the Italian tactician will be desperate to add a defender before the deadline and it appears as though his luck may finally be in.
According to Marca, the Premier League giants are close to completing a deal worth €25m for Alonso, with the 25-year-old set to offer a solid defensive option and versatility given that he can play at left-back, centre-back or even further up the field given his ability on the ball.
In turn, he’ll be a welcome addition to the Chelsea squad which lacks depth in defence, although Fiorentina will also welcome the move despite losing a key player, as they are set to make €25m in profit given that they signed Alonso on a free transfer in 2013.
84 appearances later, and the former Bolton Wanderers man has undoubtedly developed into a top player, and his presence at Stamford Bridge will be a boost for all concerned.
Chelsea have started the season on a positive note with three wins in three games in the Premier League. As they sit joint top of the table heading into the international break, Conte will be desperate to ensure that their momentum continues to build, and new signings will certainly help that process.
While €25m is a lot for Alonso, there’s no denying his improved defensive abilities and his technical quality. In turn, he could turn out to be another very astute move from Conte and Chelsea this summer as they continue to address key areas of the squad that need strengthening.
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