Emerson Palmieri is open to prolonging his stay at Lyon, although the Chelsea loanee suggested that he would decide his next move at the end of the season.
Emerson Palmieri has been a curious signing for Chelsea, with his displays inconsistent for the club. His role was defined by the different managers at the helm, with some preferring to play the Italian regularly, while others decided to keep him on as a squad option.
Despite playing a part, even if a small one, in Chelsea’s Champions League triumph last season, Emerson found himself on the fringes of Thomas Tuchel’s plans.
He joined Lyon on loan at the start of the season, with Tuchel happy with his options at left-back in Ben Chilwell and Marcos Alonso. However, by January, Chelsea were left thin in the position after a season-ending injury to the England international, forcing the Blues to unsuccessfully try to recall Emerson from his loan.
At the end of the season, the Italy international looks primed to leave Chelsea for pastures new, with the full-back gathering plenty of interest. Juventus are keen on signing the left-back along with Serie A rivals Lazio, who have Maurizio Sarri at the helm.
Meanwhile, Lyon are also open to signing him permanently, although much will depend on Emerson’s decision at the end of the current season. The French giants hold an option to buy in the loan contract, although they may look to re-negotiate the final price with Chelsea, which opens the door for other interested parties.
Emerson, however, seems happy to stay on at Lyon as his comments on Foot Mercato, as quoted by Sport Witness, suggested. The Chelsea defender said he is enjoying his time at the club. However, he added that he will decide his next step when the season ends.
Emerson said, “Of course, yes, I have no problem saying that I can stay at OL. It’s a pleasure to be here. There are different factors. It doesn’t just depend on me. There are still six games to play, and then I will have an answer to give you all.”
Emerson has played in 33 games across all competition for Lyon this season, scoring once. The defender has become a key part of the French club, although they remain in danger of not qualifying for Europe next season, which may have an impact on the Chelsea ace’s decision.