Chelsea have reportedly entered the race for highly rated youngster Youri Tielemans. The midfielder is set to spark a bidding war this summer.
As Chelsea continue to plan for next season, another promising midfielder has appeared on their radar. According to the latest reports, the Blues are lining up a move for Youri Tielemans, Anderlecht’s 19-year-old club captain.
The Express is the source of the story, claiming in an exclusive that Chelsea are ready to fight the likes of Manchester United for the midfielder.
"Chelsea are weighing up a bid as soon as the transfer window opens after sending a scout to watch him against Manchester United this week…Chelsea are willing to make the first bid for Tielemans after becoming frustrated in their pursuit of Atalanta’s Franck Kessie, who now looks set to join Roma."
More from The Pride of London
- Bournemouth 0-0 Chelsea player ratings: Abysmal, reckless, wasteful
- Bournemouth 0-0 Chelsea: 3 Blues talking points
- Bournemouth vs Chelsea: 1 Blue Mauricio Pochettino should drop
- Bournemouth vs Chelsea: 3 Blues who must start
- Predicted Chelsea lineup vs Bournemouth: Palmer starts in 4-2-3-1
Tielemans has been causing quite a stir over in Belgium. He has turned out over 150 times for Anderlecht, having made his debut at the age of 16.
Football Manager players may be familiar with the youngster, as he has been a star in the game over the last few years. However, he now seems set to make a real impact in real life.
While the quality of the Belgian league is debatable, there is no denying Tielemans’ talent. The midfielder pulls the strings for Anderlecht and contributes in material manners. His 17 goals this season show his palpable threat when carrying the ball forward.
Chelsea are right to be pursuing him. At his age and with his potential, Tielemans could be the Blues’ next Frank Lampard. If handled correctly, he could develop into one of the world’s leading midfielders.
This is also the problem, though. Will the club give him the playing time he needs? Given his experience at such a young age, sitting on the sidelines will be a horrific step backwards. If he joins the Blues, he needs to become an important member of the team and be, in the very least, part of a rotating midfield.
With his price estimated around £25 million, Tielemans will not break the bank. In fact, he comes as a bargain for a top team who will truly value his talent. Will that team be Chelsea? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!