Chelsea owner, Roman Abramovich, is willing to sanction a world record defender deal for the Juventus star Leonardo Bonucci in January.
The Italian international was a target for Antonio Conte during the summer as well, but a deal never quite materialised and Chelsea pursued other targets.
According to the Telegraph, Abramovich is aware of his side’s defensive failings and is ready to break the bank to address those problems.
The Russian owner has already informed Conte that he is willing to pay in excess of 60 million pounds for the 29-year-old. Apparently, he had lunch with Conte last week and was present at Cobham as well.
Telegraph adds that City are likely to rival Chelsea for the Italian international, but Abramovich wants to make a mark in the transfer market and is ready to go the distance for Bonucci.
Bonucci would be a world class addition to the Chelsea squad. The Italian would improve the team as a defensive unit, bringing his leadership and experience to benefit Chelsea overall.
Antonio Conte has worked with Bonucci at Juventus for three years and both are aware of each other’s methods. Therefore, settling in at Chelsea should not be too much of an issue for the Italian defender.
Having said all that, Chelsea will still need to convince Juventus to sell one of their best players midway through the season. No top club is likely to sanction a sale like that. It could jeopardise their season, especially their Champions League ambitions.
Telegraph adds that Bonucci is Conte’s dream target and in that case, one can expect a big money offer from Chelsea in January, regardless of whether Juventus accept it or not. If they do manage to pull it off, Bonucci could be one of Chelsea’s best signings in a long time.
The Italian has the ability, as well as the experience, needed to help Chelsea take the next step and return to Champions League.
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