Chelsea should pursue Fernando Llorente until the transfer deadline
The latest reports claim that Chelsea are reviving their interest in Fernando Llorente. The Blues should pursue the Swansea City striker until time is up.
Chelsea have a bit of business to get over the line this week. As the transfer deadline looms, Antonio Conte is on the lookout for a number of players to bolster his squad depth. One player who is coming back into view is Fernando Llorente and the Blues should try their utmost to sign the Spaniard.
According to the Independent, Chelsea are lining Llorente up as one of three potential last-minute signings.
"Chelsea will this week revive their interest in Fernando Llorente with a concrete bid to Swansea City, as Antonio Conte looks to make at least three signings before the window closes on Thursday night."
The Blues are also reportedly in the hunt for Danny Drinkwater, while a fee was apparently agreed for the transfer of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain on Monday afternoon. However, the opening three games of the season suggest that striker is an area of concern.
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Michy Batshuayi has been terrible after a thoroughly impressive pre-season. He has failed to take advantage of two starts (including the Community Shield) while he scored an own goal against Tottenham.
Alvaro Morata is starting to convince, especially following his performance against Everton. Conte only has two striking options, though, with Batshuayi looking toothless at the moment.
Llorente is a proven goalscorer in both La Liga and the Premier League. He hit the back of the net 15 times last season for a poor Swansea side, proving his quality. Moreover, at the age of 32, he should be content to play second-fiddle to the younger Morata.
With the amount of games on Chelsea’s schedule, Conte needs quality depth. Llorente is the sort of player who can come in for Morata in the odd Premier League or cup game and still maintain the Blues’ attacking threat.
As the Oxlade-Chamberlain deal edges closer to the finish line, the board should divert efforts towards this Llorente pursuit. Given Swansea’s position, they will likely be happy to accept a suitable offer. Chelsea may be able to secure a quality second striker for a decent price.
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What do you think? Is Llorente a good signing? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!