Chelsea FC are set to battle Atletico Madrid in order to seal a move for long-term target Nicolas Tagliafico. The Argentine international has been Frank Lampard’s preferred alternative for first-choice target Ben Chilwell. However, with Leicester City being reluctant on letting Chilwell leave this summer, Lampard will be looking to finalize a deal for Tagliafico instead.
Tagliafico, who plays for Ajax, had been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in the past as well. But Lampard was eager on securing a move for the 23-year old Chilwell as his preferred full-back addition for the Blues.
Ajax are reportedly willing to sell the 24-year old Argentine defender as long as the club’s £24.5 million valuation is met. Chelsea FC would be more than willing to meet the stipulated price-tag. Tagliafico’s transfer will cost the Blues much less than what the West London based outfit would have shelled out to sign Chilwell from Leicester City.
However, Lampard faces a challenge from La Liga giants Atletico Madrid over Tagliafico’s availability this summer. The Spanish side too have been interested in signing the attacking full-back for a long time. The 24-year old was linked with a move to Wanda Metropolitano Stadium last summer as well.
Chelsea FC have been suffering from defensive woes in recent games owing to a lack of quality left-back in their squad. Both Marcos Alonso and Emerson have failed to impress Lampard since his appointment as the Blues manager last year. Thus, Lampard has chosen to dip into the market and sign a new defensive reinforcement for his side.
The Blues have conducted business successfully with Ajax in recent months. Lampard masterminded the signing of Hakim Ziyech from the Dutch side earlier this year in February. The 27-year old signed on to become a Chelsea FC player and joined up with his new teammates last week.
With Chilwell’s move to Stamford Bridge seeming unlikely in light of Brendan Rodger’s recent comments, Lampard could go ahead and make a move for Tagliafico. The 24-year old has been impressive for Ajax in recent seasons and has time on his side. Moreover, Tagliafico has become a regular fixture in the Argentina national team squad as well.
With a defensive crisis currently underway at Chelsea FC, signing Tagliafico could be great step for the Blues. Alongside his defensive capabilities, the Argentine’s attacking qualities would be a welcome boost for Frank Lampard’s side.
