Kerim Alajbegović
Chelsea have been in the frame to sign Kerim Alajbegović and a deal is now gathering pace.
The Bosnian is one of the most-wanted talents in Europe right now. After doing well at Salzburg, Bayer Leverkusen re-signed him but are looking to sell him for a quick profit.
Sport Witness have covered how Italian clubs have also been keen on his signature. English sides have proved to be a threat, with Sunderland and Leeds United previously in the race.
A move to England is now looking increasingly likely and this comes as a blow to AS Roma.
Blues move closing in
La Repubblica – via SiamoLaRoma, report that while Roma are back in the chase for Alajbegovic, a deal looks complex. The player has expressed interest in joining the Italian side but Gian Piero Gasperini has doubts about the teenager.
He feels Alajbegovic is too young to be a regular under his system and is looking for a more established star.
This is great news for Chelsea. It is believed the attacker’s father-agent has expressed a desire to Xabi Alonso about joining the Blues.
The London club are also prepared to meet the €35m price tag too. Before closing the move, they have to make sales but despite that, Alonso’s side are a step ahead of everyone in the race.
Leverkusen are in a hurry and Chelsea’s pressure can now prove key.
Our take: Player may need a loan
There is no doubt about Alajbegovic’s abilities. The 18-year-old did well at the World Cup, playing a key role in helping his country qualify for the tournament before that.
Chelsea shouldn’t rush him into their project right away. Loaning him out would make a lot of sense and that is something the Blues do for a lot of players.
If his career is managed well, €35m could turn out to be a bargain for the Leverkusen talent.