The Chelsea fans in the Football Transfer Tavern are expecting Cesc Fabregas to depart the club in January…
The Spaniard has had a tough time of it under Antonio Conte, with the Italian boss preferring the midfield partnership of N’Golo Kante and Nemanja Matic so far.
Everyone in the Tavern is expecting a departure in January, as Fabregas is just too good to sit on the bench every week; and Chelsea must prepare for that.
The Spaniard has played well whenever has been called upon, and has played a huge part in a number of Chelsea wins this season.
Whilst he might not be playing, he offers an excellent alternative from the bench; and if he is not replaced, Chelsea will lose that option
With that said, if Fabregas was to be axed in January, these 3 would be perfect replacements
Isco
The Real Madrid man has been linked with a move away from the Bernabeu in recent weeks, given his lack of game time in the Spanish capital.
With Fabregas potentially on the way out, Isco would represent an excellent alternative – and some of the punters in the Tavern are even suggesting that he would be an improvement.
Isco has the ability to dominate games like Fabregas did, but he also offers more mobility than the Spaniard.
If he is available, Chelsea should swoop in for him.
Marco Veratti
Marco Veratti would be a very expensive alternative; but what an option he would be.
The young Italian has been a revelation at PSG in recent months, and has really grown into his role in the heart of the French giants’ midfield.
Like Fabregas, he is best when operating from a slightly deeper position, allowing him to dominate the play ahead of him.
He would be expensive, but he would represent an excellent, long-term solution to the Fabregas problem.
Milan Badelj
This option appears more realistic, given that Chelsea have been linked with Milan Badelj recently.
The Fiorentina midfielder could be a great option, with Conte reportedly keen to make a deal.
The 27-year-old has proven himself to be a valuable asset in the heart of the Fiorentina midfield, offering dynamic passing and technical prowess going forward.
Less renowned than the other two options, but with a departure seemingly on the cards; he could be a more realistic and reliable option.
