Italian outlet Tuttosport, via Metro have reported that Chelsea have their eyes set on Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar.
However, Premier League rivals Liverpool and Manchester City are also interested in his signature. Italian giants Juventus are also interested. Chelsea Frank Lampard is looking at the 21-year-old to boost his talent in midfield. The former Blues legend reportedly wants to overhaul his squad in the summer.
Houssem Aouar Signing Could Start Chelsea Summer Overhaul
A Long-Term Option that Requires Quick Improvement to Secure
The France U21 star has been considered a better long-term option than Juventus’ Miralem Pjanic. Chelsea are ready to test the Lyon’s resolve, however, with a £43 million bid for Aouar. Yet, for that to go successfully, Chelsea will have to make Champions League football.
The Blues have looked set on securing a top-four finish all season. Furthermore, with Manchester City’s European ban, that hope of midweek European matches is boosted. Manager Frank Lampard has been critical of his side’s inconsistency, however.
Lampard reportedly believes that Aouar could improve his side on a week-in, week-out basis. He is aware of how important Champions League football will be when attracting Aouar to West London.
However, if Aouar were to sign, how would he improve Chelsea alongside the already confirmed Hakim Ziyech come the 2020/21 season?
Aouar and Ziyech Would Bring Versatility and Skill to the Side
Aouar can play anywhere in midfield. He has been praised for his excellent technical ability and his calmness with the ball at his feet. That versatility likens him to the incoming Hakim Ziyech.
Ziyech plays at centre-midfield, right and left wing-back, and both wings. By trade, though, Ziyech is a centre-midfielder. His main strengths lie with passing and dribbling ability.
Midfielders who can play anywhere will supply Lampard with great options if any of his stars were to be injured. Rotation will be a good factor for Chelsea if they secure Champions League football.
How Likely is the Transfer?
The only team linked with Aouar that will not get Champions League football next season is Manchester City.
Chelsea has an advantage over City in the fact that, unless the sky blues successfully appeal against UEFA, they will get Champions League football if they don’t slip.
The key factor is the Champions League. If Chelsea wants to get their man, among perhaps many other big-name stars, in the summer, then they must secure what may be a top-five spot.
Plus, in the potential case of Ziyech, Aouar, and other linked names signing, Chelsea could definitely see themselves pushing for the Premier League’s top spot over the likes of Tottenham and both Manchester clubs.
Main Photo:
