Chelsea’s ageing squad definitely needs some shaking up and many in the Transfer Tavern believe that Branislav Ivanovic is one player that needs replacing imminently.
The right-back has recently signed a contract extension but it’s clear he is approaching the back-end of his career, with the defender’s performances at times this season being extremely underwhelming- and that’s raised question about his long-term future.
Ivanovic will be difficult to replace, as he’s been a brilliant servant to Chelsea over the years, so bringing someone new in isn’t an easy as you may think. However, our punters have a few ideas as to who they could bring in.
They’ve outlined their selections to us here, stating that they’d be extremely happy to see any of these five brought into the club by whoever ends up being their next long-term managerial appointment.
Our landlord has also cast his eyes other the selections, believing that many of these would be perfect additions for Chelsea’s struggling side.
Hit Ivanovic below to see FIVE players who Chelsea could replace him with!
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Gregory Van Der Wiel
The 28-year-old Dutch international would be a stellar and experienced addition to the Chelsea backline, with the Paris Saint-Germain likely open to a move. Gregory Van Der Wiel has been linked with a move to the Premier League for a while and this summer may be the year that materialises.
PSG have elected to use young Ivorian Serge Aurier as their first-choice option at the right-side of their defence this season, which may force the more experienced name out of the club as he seeks more regular first-team football.
He still has a number of decent years in him yet and his potential availability will play into the hands of the West London giants.
Martin Montoya
Another defender likely to be on the move this summer, Martin Montoya will be weak known to fans of European football due to his long association with Barcelona. Whilst he’s failed to make a stake for regular football there, he’s done enough to impress other top sides around Europe.
Currently on-loan at Inter Milan, Montoya could be looking for a more permanent switch this summer and Chelsea would be smart to offer him that chance. At 24, he has enough experience to settle immediately but he also possesses the ability to continue to develop.
Dani Carvajal
Much like Gregory Van Der Wiel previously, Dani Carvajal may force his way out of Real Madrid this summer in search of more regular first-team football. Whilst Carvajal remains highly-rated in Spain, the purchase of Danilo last summer has decreased his opportunities.
At 24, Real Madrid will likely demand a fairly high price for his services and negotiations with Los Blancos almost always include a buy-back option, which won’t appeal to Chelsea. However, with the Spanish giants wanting to do tremendous business this summer, players may need to make way.
Carvajal could be considered as one player they could afford to lose, with Danilo more than capable of covering his spot in the side.
Mattia De Sciglio
23-year-old Italian ace Mattia De Sciglio is one of the best young full-backs in the world outside of the clubs in the Champions League. Whilst Chelsea wouldn’t be able to offer him a chance at that level next year, their prospects in Europe’s elite competition are better than that of a struggling Milan outfit.
The Italian side will undoubtably not want to part ways with one of their crucial assets but they may find themselves in a position that sees them unable to fend off interest. If Chelsea offer the right money, Milan are unlikely to turn them away and Chelsea would land themselves a star.
Seamus Coleman
If Chelsea want to bring in a player with Premier League experience, then Everton’s Seamus Coleman could be the ideal choice. At 27, the Republic of Ireland international may be keen to take the step up to the next level.
Everton are a tremendous side, with bags of ability, but it’s fair to say they’re not quite living up to their targets. European football is the aim but they face stiff competition and it may be a few years until the Toffees are contenders on the continental stage.
Coleman, unfortunately, might not be able to wait that long and a move to Stamford Bridge could be extremely appealing.
