Chelsea are once again being linked with a move for AS Roma’s Kostas Manolas after his Zenit St Petersburg transfer hit complications.
While Chelsea are expected to close deals for Alex Sandro and Tiemoue Bakayoko in the coming days, an old transfer target has come back into the fold. Kostas Manolas was set to complete his switch to Zenit St Petersburg, but a delay has reportedly caused the Blues to contemplate a last-minute effort to sign him.
According to Sky Sports, the defender failed to turn up for his medical instead requesting more time to discuss personal terms.
"Chelsea have been encouraged to make a late bid to sign Roma centre-back Kostas Manolas, according to Sky sources.Manolas was due to complete a £30m move to Zenit St Petersburg on Wednesday, but he did not arrive for his planned 7am medical.And Manolas and his advisers have asked for extra time to negotiate his personal terms."
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
This is an odd development that only suggests that Manolas has got cold feet over a move to Russia. Perhaps he has been made aware of interest from another club, or he is rethinking the wisdom of switching from the Serie A to the Russian Premier League. Whatever the reason, there is an opportunity for Chelsea to woo the highly-rated defender.
The Blues have been on the lookout for a defender this summer. With a heavier schedule and Champions League football awaiting next season, Antonio Conte needs a stronger squad to cope appropriately.
Virgil Van Dijk and Leonardo Bonucci have been the subject of most speculation thus far. However, with both players valued at well over £50 million, Manolas could be an ideal alternative.
The Zenit deal is reportedly worth around £30 million. Hence, the Blues will likely just need to meet that figure to hold talks with the player. At the age of 26, Manolas has as bright a future as Van Dijk. Moreover, he is well seasoned, having played in the Champions League for Roma.
Next: Courtois’ agent admits Real Madrid talks, because of course he did
What do you think? Should Chelsea tempt Manolas? Or has that shipped sailed? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!