Chelsea have reportedly entered the race to sign AS Roma star Nicolo Zaniolo, who is also a target for Tottenham Hotspur and Juventus.
According to Fichajes, Chelsea are the latest entrant in the battle for the signature of AS Roma and Italy attacking midfielder Nicolo Zaniolo, who is already being pursued by Tottenham Hotspur and Juventus.
Zaniolo has put his injury ordeal behind him and is nearing his best levels as he enjoyed a fine 2021/22 campaign with Roma. The 23-year-old finished with a tally of eight goals and nine assists from 42 games for Jose Mourinho’s side, even scoring the winning goal in their UEFA Europa Conference League final against Rangers.
Zaniolo’s form has seen him attract interest from several suitors across Europe. Juventus have been pushing hard to sign him as a possible replacement for Paulo Dybala, who interestingly has joined Roma on a free transfer. However, the Bianconeri’s efforts so far have proven futile.
Tottenham, too, have been intent on signing Zaniolo as manager Antonio Conte and director Fabio Paratici both want the Italian international on board. Spurs have had a solid transfer window so far but are in the market for a creative midfielder as the last piece of the jigsaw in the final third of the pitch.
Zaniolo, given his ability to play anywhere in the final third and quality on the ball, would be a good fit. It is why Tottenham are planning another bid for the 23-year-old after having seen a player-plus-cash offer including Joe Rodon get rejected.
However, Juventus and Tottenham will now have to face added competition from Chelsea. The Blues have had a frustrating summer transfer window so far despite signing two quality players in Raheem Sterling and Kalidou Koulibaly. With Romelu Lukaku leaving and the likes of Christian Pulisic, Hakim Ziyech, and Timo Werner staring at uncertain futures, attacking reinforcements are vital for Thomas Tuchel’s side.
And Zaniolo is seen as a viable option to bolster their ranks by the manager. Considering his versatile nature, the 23-year-old can be a wise acquisition for Chelsea, where he could be a part of a fluid attacking lineup alongside the likes of Mason Mount, Sterling and Kai Havertz.
AS Roma are demanding around €50 million for Zaniolo, which should not be an issue for Chelsea. But with Juventus and Tottenham also in the mix and already having made approaches for the Italian, the Blues will have their task cut out if they are serious about signing him.
