Branislav Ivanovic set to end Chelsea career, move to Zenit
Branislav Ivanovic is reportedly close to sealing a move to Zenit St Petersburg, ending his nine year career with Chelsea.
With a few days left in the January transfer window, the rumour mill is heating up. The latest Chelsea story regards Branislav Ivanovic, who is reportedly close to sealing a switch to Zenit St Petersburg. The Serbian’s nine-year West London stay could be over by the weekend.
The Daily Mail claim that talks are ongoing between the concerned parties, with Ivanovic potentially leaving Chelsea for free.
"Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic is in talks over a move to Zenit St Petersburg. The 32-year-old will be allowed to leave on a free transfer with the Russian club keen to sign him over the weekend on a three-and-a-half-year deal."
The defender has been a loyal servant to the Blues, helping the club to many trophies over the years. However, he has found playing time hard to come by under Antonio Conte, especially since the switch to the back three.
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At the age of 32, Ivanovic is reaching the end of his playing career. Justifiably, he does not want to see it out on the sidelines.
The Serbian’s contract expires at the end of the season and there appears to be no plans to renew it. Hence, he will be a free agent anyway in six months. Realising this, the Blues are happy to let Ivanovic to depart for free in this transfer window.
Ivanovic has made only 15 appearances this season, with the bulk of them coming from the substitutes’ bench. Conte has found a solid defensive partnership in Cesar Azpilicueta, David Luiz and Gary Cahill. There has been little reason to insert Ivanovic.
Furthermore, the defender has regressed over the last two seasons. Unlike John Terry, Ivanovic has felt the effects of age and many fans view him as unreliable. In fact, the contract extension handed to him last year was considered a surprise.
However, an exit may finally give fans an opportunity to reflect on all the contributions Ivanovic has made since 2008. What do you think of this move? Should Chelsea bother trying to get any money out of it? Let us know in the comments!