Chelsea have reportedly initiated discussions to secure the services of 26-year-old French international Adrien Rabiot.
According to reputed Italian journalist Rudy Galetti, Adrien Rabiot’s agent has been contacted by Chelsea over a possible move in a future transfer window. However, the French international is only a backup option for the Blues, with Aurelien Tchouameni and Declan Rice the priority targets.
Adrien Rabiot joined Juventus on a free transfer in July 2019 following an acrimonious exit from Paris Saint-Germain. The 26-year-old has since featured prominently for the Bianconeri while also regaining his place in the French national side.
To date, Rabiot has made 102 appearances for Juventus, chipping in with six goals and five assists in the process. However, the player’s performances have often left a lot to be desired, even though he remains a regular option for Massimiliano Allegri. But his inconsistent displays have not deterred prospective suitors, with Chelsea among the clubs keen on signing him.
The interest from Chelsea is a tad-bit surprising but does make sense. While Thomas Tuchel could have a packed midfield unit at his disposal following the returns of impressive loanees like Conor Gallagher and Billy Gilmour, he might still need to bolster his squad in the position.
The reasoning for the eagerness to reinforce the midfield department could be the fitness issues that have plagued N’Golo Kante in the last couple of years apart from Saul Niguez’s unimpressive displays since arriving on loan from Atletico Madrid. In addition, Jorginho has constantly flirted with the prospect of returning to Italy, with Juventus coincidentally among his suitors.
At the same time, Ross Barkley’s time at Chelsea appears to be winding down, with the Blues ready to cash in on him. So, it is understandable why Chelsea would want to sign someone like Rabiot. And the west Londoners have already established contact with the 26-year-old’s environment.
However, the French international is merely a backup option for Chelsea, with Declan Rice and Aurelien Tchouameni their priority targets. Recent reports have also claimed that the Premier League heavyweights lead the race to sign Tchouameni. So, it remains to be seen if Chelsea are forced to turn their attention towards Rabiot, although that prospect looks highly unlikely.