Transfer News: Chelsea keeping a close tab on Juventus loanee Merih Demiral
Speaking in an interview, as quoted by TuttoJuve (h/t Football.London), Turkish journalist Yakup Çınar has revealed that Chelsea are interested in Merih Demiral.
Since joining Atalanta on loan, Merih Demiral has had an impressive spell. Playing in the centre-back position, his performances in the 36 matches across all competitions for the Italian team has put him on the radar of top teams, including the Blues.
Due to his outstanding performances, Demiral has attracted the eyes of some top European teams. According to Turkish journalist Yakup Çınar, Chelsea are in the race with Atletico Madrid, Real Madrid and Everton.
“The two Madrid teams, Real and Atletico, are very interested. I can say that Diego Simeone would like to see him in his team. In addition to these two teams, Everton and Chelsea would also be interested in a player like Merih [Demiral].”
Does Merih Demiral match Chelsea’s requirements?
Chelsea have one of the best centre-back rosters in the Premier League- one that includes Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen, Thiago Silva, Trevoh Chalobah and César Azpilicueta.
However, due to the complex renewal situation regarding some of these players, the Blues are in for a potential defensive exodus this summer, starting with Rudiger and Christensen. If that happens, there is no doubt that the current UCL holders will need new faces at the back.
Even though the Turkish star might not be in the same basket as the German when it comes to laurels and international experience, he has shown positive signs of reaching the level one day. More than that, he would be a necessary pair of legs in our backline for next season.
Demiral doesn’t have any experience of playing in the PL, so a move here may see him take time adjusting to new surroundings. But then again, our staff members are more than capable of gelling in a player like him seamlessly over the seasons.
Now it remains to be seen where the Turkish defender’s interest lies. We would be wise to eye a player like him because of his experience in a top league like Serie A, and his age profile.
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The 24-year-old defender, who has player for Sporting, Alanyaspor, and Fenerbahce’s development teams in the past, still has his prime years ahead of him and Tuchel would be smart to bring in a player that can ease the pressure that Christensen and Rudiger’s potential departures can create.