Nicolas Tagliafico is among the players targeted by Chelsea as Thomas Tuchel looks to beef up his options at left-back.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are in the market for a new left-back. The club have already identified multiple options, including Nicolas Tagliafico, with the Italian journalist stating that the Blues had held discussions to sign the Ajax defender several weeks ago.
Once regarded as one of the top full-backs in South America, Tagliafico was a hot prospect in the market in the summer, especially among English clubs. The Ajax star was indeed linked with a move to West Ham, while the likes of Barcelona and Manchester United were involved in the equation as well. But the Argentine remained at Ajax – a move that hasn’t panned out quite well so far.
With half of the 2021/22 campaign already done and dusted, Tagliafico has only mustered 295 minutes of league football. He has started in only two Eredivisie matches this season, falling behind Daley Blind in the pecking order.
However, the 28-year-old is still regarded as a quality player due to his technical prowess and versatility out wide. A left-back by trade, the Argentine can indeed operate in a more attacking role or even at centre-back, if required. He can be particularly good at reading the game, thus allowing him to neutralise potential counter-attacking threats.
With over 150 appearances for Ajax and 36 caps for the Argentine national team, Tagliafico also offers vast experience at the highest level of football. It makes him a desirable option for Chelsea, who are desperate to find a replacement for Ben Chilwell.
The English international has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to knee surgery. It leaves Chelsea shallow in the left-back department, with Marcos Alonso available as the only alternative. Even then, the Spaniard has been linked with a move to Napoli, although the Blues may not sanction an exit until the end of the season.
Nevertheless, the addition of someone like Tagliafico could be a major boost for Tuchel as he looks to find cover for Chilwell. As mentioned earlier, the Argentine international has the experience and the quality to become a success in the Premier League. He is unlikely to cost a fortune either, with his current contract expiring in 2023.
Aside from Tagliafico, Chelsea are also considering a move for Everton star Lucas Digne – a much safer option considering the Frenchman’s experience in English football. But the Blues may face stiff competition from Serie A giants Napoli and Juventus.
