The Chelsea board is working with maximum intensity to rebuild the team, which is in urgent need of a reliable striker.
The sports director’s absolute priority is to strengthen the offensive department with a physically strong player, capable of scoring regularly and providing guarantees in front of goal.
Into this scenario enters Xabi Alonso, who has just taken over at Chelsea with full powers to build the team according to his ideas. The Spanish coach aims to recreate previous successes and considers it essential to have a “nine” with strong linking play and the ability to keep the team on top.
According to a report from FussballDaten, Alonso’s main target is Brentford striker Igor Thiago. The Basque coach is said to be a big fan of the Brazilian’s qualities and has given the club the green light to start negotiations immediately.
Igor Thiago has become known in England for his strength in the air, intelligent movement in space and ability to find the goal – elements that match Alonso’s attacking ideas.
His performances in the Premier League have attracted the attention of several European giants, but Chelsea are believed to be in a favourable position thanks to the “Alonso effect” and the new project being built at Stamford Bridge. The report adds that the first talks, discreetly, have already begun between the two clubs’ intermediaries.
Sales, the key to the operation
However, the financial feasibility of this move depends heavily on the expected “cleansing” of the squad. Chelsea must get rid of several players who are considered redundant, to reduce the wage bill and create space for new approaches.
On the other hand, Brentford are not expected to let go of their goalscorer easily and are reportedly looking for a very high fee for the Brazilian.
The battle in the Premier League offices has only just begun and is set to turn into one of the most heated sagas of the summer transfer window in Europe. Alonso is said to be pushing the board to get the deal done before the official pre-season begins.
In terms of sport, the approach of Igor Thiago would be a big step forward, giving Chelsea a “reference point” in attack and more chances to compete with the European elite. / Telegraph /
