Chelsea make contact with Leonardo Bonucci representatives
Chelsea have reportedly held talks with Leonardo Bonucci’s agent, as they Blues ready a near-£50 million bid for the Juventus defender.
The transfer rumour mill continues to turn and the Blues have once again been linked with Leonardo Bonucci. According to the latest reports, Chelsea have already spoken with the player’s agent as they move towards a deal worth almost £50 million.
The Metro cites sources in Italy, claiming that Alessandro Lucci has travelled to the English capital to speak to the West London club.
"La Stampa claim that Bonucci’s representative, Alessandro Lucci, was in London last week and met with the Premier League champions.The Turin-based newspaper also claims that Chelsea are ready to submit a €55 million (£48.6m) offer for the 30-year-old."
Bonucci has been on the Blues’ radar for some time now. His links with Antonio Conte have played a part in this, with the defender captaining Italy at points during Conte’s reign.
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His familiarity with Conte’s tactics and style of play make him a prime candidate as Chelsea look to reinforce their defence. Given the number of games that will be on their schedule next season, they need players of Bonucci’s calibre to join.
Having said that, the price Chelsea are seemingly set to pay is a bit excessive. Wth Virgil Van Dijk nearly on the move for £60 million, it is evident that top quality defenders will be dear. However, with Bonucci already over the age of 30, is this a smart move?
There is no telling whether Bonucci will be able to play late into his thirties like John Terry has. The continued speculation linking him with a Chelsea switch has been fed into Juventus’ demands. Perhaps the Blues would be better served by splashing a similar fee on a younger star? Or buying two prospects instead?
What do you think? Is this a reasonable price for Bonucci? Leave us your thoughts in the comments below!