There are two things that Chelsea need to aim for this summer. Firstly, they need to bring in quality and not just add numbers to the squad. So, players who are good enough to start from day one. Secondly, they need to sign people who fit Xabi Alonso’s plans. Otherwise, there is not much point in making him the ‘manager’ instead of the head coach. He is expected to have a say on matters, and hopefully, he won’t be afraid to make his voice heard.
Centre-back is one position in most urgent need of reinforcements this summer. And it looks like one of Bayer Leverkusen’s centre-backs are on Chelsea’s radar. He is someone that Alonso has worked with already during his time in Germany. In fact, he played an integral part in their Invincible Bundesliga-winning campaign.
Coming back to Chelsea, the club’s defence has been one of their weaknesses. On the other hand, Bayer Leverkusen conceded just 24 goals in that aforementioned season. So, expect Alonso to try and tighten things up at the back. What better way to do that than by bringing in someone who he already knows is capable of playing in his system?
According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea are weighing up a summer move for Bayer Leverkusen’s Edmond Tapsoba. The Burkina Faso international is emerging as a serious option for the Premier League club.
Why Tapsoba could be a great signing for Chelsea
Standing at 6’4″, Tapsoba would immediately add a physical presence at the back for Chelsea. But his biggest strength might lie in his ability to help the team play out from the back.
Tapsoba is actually one of the best ball-playing centre-backs in the Bundesliga. He is 95th percentile or higher when it comes to assists, big chances created, successful passes and accurate long balls.
So, it would make sense for Chelsea to sign someone like Tapsoba to their backline. They have far too many centre-backs who do not look completely comfortable when it comes to playing out from the back. The Bayer Leverkusen man is not expected to have any such problems.
Also, at 27 years of age, he is entering his prime. So, his best years would be spent in a Chelsea jersey if they manage to sign him right now.
Signing Tapsoba is not going to be easy
It is worth mentioning that Tapsoba did sign a long-term extension with Bayer Leverkusen not too long ago. So, it would not be easy for Chelsea to go in and sign him.
Bayer Leverkusen are expected to ask for a significant transfer fee to part ways with Tapsoba. It remains to be seen if Chelsea can find an agreement or not.
Let’s not forget, the club have been linked with several Premier League centre-backs as well. The likes of Jan Paul van Hecke of Brighton, Nathan Ake of Manchester City and Maxence Lacroix of Crystal Palace are all believed to be on their shortlist for the position heading into the summer transfer window.