Recent reports indicate Chelsea FC’s interest in signing Atletico Madrid center-back Jose Gimenez this summer. Interest in the Uruguayan defender comes amid clamoring from the Blues’ supporters for a defensive addition to the squad. The Chelsea FC backline has been the subject of heavy criticism this season, particularly post the lockdown period.
Gimenez has been an integral part of Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid side over the past six years. The Uruguayan international has excelled both at club and country level since making his debut for the La Liga side in 2013. Despite being only 25-years old, the center-back has made 58 appearances for the Uruguayan national team.
Signing a center-back for his side has become a priority for Chelsea FC boss Frank Lampard of late. The Blues’ have the worst defense amongst the top-half clubs in the Premier League this season. Having shipped 54 goals already, Lampard is on the hunt for defensive reinforcements ahead of next season’s start.
And now rumors persist on Lampard having sent scouts to Spain in order to monitor Gimenez play for Diego Simeone’s side in the Spanish league. Signing the 25-year old Uruguayan international would be treated rather well by the Chelsea FC supporters. The Blues’ fanbase is fed up with the current woes of their club’s defense.
However, pursuing Gimenez’s transfer this summer will be a laborious task for Frank Lampard. The 25-year old center-back is one of the most important players in the Atletico Madrid first-team squad, despite a recent loss in form amid a series of consecutive injury troubles. However, the La Liga side’s coach Diego Simeone is known to very appreciative of Gimenez’s value to the club.
Lampard will, however, need to sell a center-back from his present squad depth to accommodate the possible arrival of Gimenez at Stamford Bridge. Kurt Zouma has been linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspurs, according to various reports. Sanctioning the sale of the French international to Spurs will also mean grater funds at Lampard’s disposal for future signings.
A number of center-back options are rumored to be one Lampard’s shortlist for the ongoing transfer window. West Ham United’s Declan Rice continues to be a high-priority transfer target for the Chelsea FC boss this summer. Moreover, Lampard has also enquired about the availability of emerging La Liga star Diego Carlos, who plays for Sevilla.
