Chelsea have reportedly joined London rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the race to sign Bournemouth full-back Adam Smith.
According to Toby Gannon of The Sun, Bournemouth defender Adam Smith is the subject of interest from Premier League leaders Chelsea. The Blues sent a scout to watch the 26-year-old feature in the Cherries’ 2-2 draw against Stoke last Sunday.
Smith, who has been impressive for Bournemouth this season, has also seen Tottenham Hotspur emerge as suitors for his signature in the summer. The Englishman left White Hart Lane three years ago due to a lack of first-team action, but could now return to the North London club.
However, his reunion with Spurs will hinge on right-back Kyle Walker’s future. The England international is just as likely to leave the club as he is to sign a new contract – particularly due to the interest shown in him by Manchester City and Real Madrid.
It now seems that Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino has already lined up a suitable replacement for Walker, and will be looking to do all he can to bring Smith back to the club. The Argentine is believed to be an admirer of the Bournemouth ace.
The 26-year-old is just like Walker as he loves to make marauding runs forward, whipping crosses into the 18-yard-area. He has registered five assists for the Cherries and also has a solitary goal to show for his exploits.
Smith has also been pivotal in ensuring Premier League safety for Bournemouth, who were once flirting with the clutches of relegation. He may not be at the club for too long, though, especially with league leaders Chelsea now interested in securing his services as well.
Blues boss Antonio Conte switched to a 3-4-3 system in October and his side hasn’t looked back since. His players have accustomed themselves to the new formation, and their Italian manager has managed to bring the best out of each of them.
Victor Moses has been deployed in an unfamiliar right wing-back position this campaign, but does not have a like-for-like replacement should he get injured. While Pedro and Willian can have a go at that position, Conte may feel the need to rope in someone with expertise in that area.
Eddie Howe’s Bournemouth do not play with wing-backs, but they make use of their full-backs to overlap the wingers. Adam Smith is constantly running up and down the right flank, causing terror to the opposition defences.
Also, still only 26, Smith could have at least another five seasons at his best in English football, and should be considered by both the London clubs. He is believed to be available in the region of £10 million, but with the growing interest, Howe could command a higher fee for the player.
