Chelsea identify Villa defender Matt Targett as cut-price signing

Villa defender Matt Targett is a target for Chelsea. According to 90min (h/t Express), the Blues have identified the 24-year-old as a cheaper alternative to Porto’s Alex Telles and Leicester’s Ben Chilwell.

Alonso was the preferred choice under Italian managers Antonio Conte and Mauricio Sarri. The Spaniard, however, has not caught Frank Lampard’s fancy and has made just 20 appearances this season.

It was not been an easy run for Emerson either, with him making just 18 appearances. Both the players have had to share the responsibility but none has emerged as a clear first-choice.

There have been times where the Blues boss has had to play Cesar Azpilicueta over the duo. That is not where Lampard wants his skipper to play and Chelsea will be actively looking to help him find an alternative in the summer.

Targett has impressed at Villa this season and is one of the players to stand out in a Villa side that is battling relegation.

The English man has impressed Chelsea scouts and provides a cheaper alternative. Our chances of getting him will also increase if Villa do indeed get relegated.

Lampard is keen to strengthen other areas of the team and signing Targett will free up more funds to be used elsewhere.

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Interestingly Targett has just one goal and three assists behind Chilwell in the Premier League despite playing 32 games lesser. Unlike Telles, he also has Premier League experience, which can help him settle in easily at the Bridge.

Targett has represented England at various youth levels. He was a part of the Under-21 side that won the Toulon Tournament in 2016. (h/t FA)

There appears to be a player in the Villa defender and he could very well turn out to be a steal like Andy Robertson if it clicks.