Chelsea are reportedly among the clubs eyeing a Bosman move for Alessio Romagnoli, who is also a target for Barcelona and Bayern Munich.
According to a report from Mundo Deportivo (h/t MilanNews.it), Alessio Romagnoli could be set to seal a Bosman move away from AC Milan at the end of the season. His current deal at San Siro expires in the summer, with multiple clubs keen on signing him on a free transfer.
Barcelona’s interest in Romagnoli has been well documented. But it appears Chelsea are set to provide stiff competition to Barcelona, while Bayern Munich are involved in the equation as well, in light of Niklas Sule’s free transfer to Borussia Dortmund at the end of the season.
Chelsea themselves are bracing for several exits in the defensive department this summer. German international Antonio Rudiger is set for Spanish royalty after reportedly agreeing a move to Real Madrid, while Andreas Christensen has opted to join arch-rivals FC Barcelona, although neither of the deals have been officiated just yet.
Chelsea might also end up losing Cesar Azpilicueta. The experienced defender has been courted by Barcelona, and it is apparent the Chelsea captain is keen on becoming a part of Xavi Hernandez’s setup in Catalonia after a decade of success in west London.
Fearing the Spaniard’s exit, Thomas Tuchel has taken it upon himself to find a long-term solution in central defence. The German tactician fancies a move for Jules Kounde, but the Frenchman’s staggering asking fees could prove to be a roadblock for Chelsea once again this summer, even though Sevilla are much more receptive to a sale this time around.
That is where Alessio Romagnoli comes into the fray for Chelsea. With almost 250 competitive appearances for Milan, the Italian brings considerable experience to the table. He also brings leadership qualities, having become a defensive lynchpin over the years for Milan and is now on the verge of leading his team to a Scudetto this weekend.
Chelsea want Romagnoli to take up the mantle of replacing Rudiger next season. The Milan defender resembles a similar style of play and has the experience to make a difference at Stamford Bridge. And with his contract expiring at the end of the season, the Italian is available for a Bosman move as well.
It makes him a feasible option for Chelsea, who have their task cut out as they look to replace not one but potentially three centre-backs in this upcoming summer transfer window. But with Barcelona and Bayern Munich also in the fray, pursuing Romagnoli will come with its challenges.
