Premier League winner Michael Ballack has suggested that Leonardo Bonucci would be a great signing for Antonio Conte’s Chelsea.
Many thought that the Italian was destined to join his fellow countryman at Stamford Bridge over the summer following a magnificent Euro 2016 under the charismatic manager, but The Blues were unable to lure him away from Italian champions Juventus.
Therefore Chelsea settled for resigning unorthodox centre half David Luiz, but he and Gary Cahill have both been thoroughly examined for the wrong reasons in recent weeks as the club’s defensive record has grown bleaker.
Ballack said, as reported by TalkSport: “If it is possible to sign a great player with good experience, it would be brilliant for Chelsea. They are a team which had a great time a few years ago and they’re looking for great success. The place they finished last year was not enough for them and they have different targets, but they have to deliver.
“You see how much money other teams spend – everyone wants to win the league – and I know from the past how difficult it is to win the Premier League. There has to be a change with the new coach in terms of playing, the style of play and delivering results, so hopefully it’s a better season for them now.”
Chelsea are likely to hand Conte a large amount of capital in January with Bonucci being the main priority for the club. But, unsurprisingly given the current state of the transfer market in football, the 29-year-old could cost up to £50m.
Conte’s men are five points behind leaders Manchester City after seven games and have only managed to keep clean sheets against promoted sides Hull City and Burnley this season.
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