Aleksandr Golovin is shooting onto the world stage just as Chelsea has allegedly bought him (or is interested in it). He would be a sneakily great buy.
Aleksandr Golovin first came to the world’s attention at the Confederations Cup. He followed it up with great performances in European competition against great Premier League teams. But it was not until this World Cup that the world really sat up and paid attention.
The young Russian is perhaps the host nation’s most exciting player. He is tactically intelligent and has an eye for a surprisingly explosive dribble. Furthermore, he is pure energy. He is no N’Golo Kante, but he could at least keep up with the Frenchman for half of his daily marathon. Clubs are watching as Golovin impresses but it may be too late for them to acquire him. Reportedly, Chelsea have either already bought him or are deep into the process of doing so.
Golovin would be a sneakily great buy for Chelsea for several reasons. Not only does he fill a need for the side, but he could fill multiple ones depending on how the Blues set up next season. His price is super cheap in the hyper inflated post Neymar market and he is only 22. His transfer would be incredibly smart.
Maurizio Sarri is expected to take over at Chelsea next season. Sarri has primarily used two formations throughout his career: a 4-3-3 and a 4-3-1-2. The former is the most likely given the success he just had with it at Napoli.
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Sarri’s midfield three consists of a deep lying playmaker who can set the tempo, a more advanced playmaker that can make late runs into the box, and a box to box player to link them together. All three need to be incredibly fit, aggressive, and smart. Chelsea’s current roster lacks anyone for the advanced playmaking role, but a purchase of Golovin would change that.
In the 4-3-1-2, Golovin could fulfill several roles. The midfield three remains similar, but with an extra box to box midfielder. The one is the advanced playmaker and one of the two strikers is usually a shadow striker. Both Eden Hazard and Golovin could play in either role. That would also cover for the loss of either Willian or Pedro (or both).
On that same note, Golovin can also play on the wing. If Chelsea do end up losing Willian or Pedro, and the Blues fail in the pursuit of a replacement, Golovin could play there. That would open up another spot for a center mid. Or Sarri could simply revert to the previously mentioned 4-3-1-2.
Golovin offers plenty of options for Chelsea which is why his purchase would be so exciting. The Blues could easily find a place for him in multiple shapes and he covers for multiple circumstances that could happen farther along in the summer. His cheap price makes him easy to bring in. Not to mention that being Russian would also please the Russian owner.
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Golovin would add a dynamism that Chelsea desperately needs. The Blues would do great business by bringing the young Russian in and Sarri will be pleased by all the ways he can use him. Chelsea must make sure the transfer happens.