According to the Gambling Times, Chelsea are closing in on a deal for Virgil van Dijk – and the Blues in the Transfer Tavern aren’t too happy about it…
Whilst on the surface, the deal sounds great – in that Chelsea are targeting one of the Premier League’s most talented defenders – in reality, the signing of Virgil van Dijk would be anything but good business.
The reported fee of around £50 million seems extortionate, given that whilst van Dijk is a top player, he has yet to be proven at the highest level. Playing for Southampton, in a team of average players, is one thing – but it is an entirely different story when you’re tasked with playing some of Europe’s best – against some of Europe’s best.
Furthermore, he has also suffered from an injury this season – having missed much of the campaign – and there is no telling what his condition will be upon his return. 6 months is a long time to be away from football, and Chelsea must be aware of that.
You also have to look at Chelsea’s squad and determine whether a new central defender is really necessary. Of course, John Terry is set to leave – but Andreas Christensen is set to return. Further to that, Nathan Ake has impressed this season – and certainly deserves a chance to play at the back. If Chelsea are paying that much for van Dijk, he can expect to play every week – so what will the Blues do? They can’t really justify dropping Luiz, Cahill or Azpilicueta, and when will Christensen and Ake get a chance?
Certainly, Conte has a few big decisions his hands this summer, but passing on Virgil van Dijk should be an easy one to make.
Chelsea fans – thoughts?
Let us know below!
