Thomas Lemar during his unveiling as Atletico Madrid player. (Getty Images)
Chelsea have followed Tottenham and have entered the race for Atletico Madrid winger Thomas Lemar, according to the Evening Standard.
One of the most exciting young players in the world at AS Monaco and a World Cup winner with France, Lemar has not developed as expected in Spain.
Currently sidelined with a muscle problem, Lemar was left out of Atletico’s squad for the Spanish Supercopa in Saudi Arabia. It is his fifth minor injury since he signed joined the club and fitness issues have not helped his progress.
The Frenchman has struggled to get to grips with Simeone’s defensive system, which demands a great deal of discipline in terms of marking and tracking back from midfielders. The 24-year-old has struggled to live up to his price tag at Atletico and started just nine of his 16 appearances in La Liga this season.
In the situation that he currently finds himself in, the idea of going elsewhere to kick-start his form, temporarily or otherwise, may seem appealing.
Chelsea are now free to sign players in January after their ban was lifted. The London club are yet to replace Eden Hazard who joined Real Madrid in summer. Tottenham, on the other hand, need reinforcements after the latest injury to star striker Harry Kane.
There aren’t many problems in Chelsea’s frontline for they have been firing on all cylinders this season, especially Tammy Abraham. However, one problem they do face is the lack of creativity from advanced wide positions. This calls for the full-backs to press higher than they are accommodated to and could leave gaps at the back.
Thomas Lemar’s ability to cross the ball into the box would be essential for the flourishing of Abraham. He would also act as a competitor to Christian Pulisic in this department which is never a bad thing.
Spurs have been lacklustre this season. Injuries and suspensions have not helped them either. Lloris and Kane both are out injured. The only positive for them has been Dele Alli’s form under new boss Jose Mourinho.
Verdict
At the moment, Chelsea look like a more realistic option for Lemar. Lampard has stuck to his game plan and has opted to play with a young and exuberant side this season and is already reaping rewards. Lemar would be a valuable addition to this side.
Thomas Lemar should seriously consider whether joining Tottenham, even on loan, would be a good idea with Mourinho at the helm. Mourinho, like Simeone, demands a great deal of discipline in terms of tracking back from wingers and is known for his defensive style of play. At Chelsea, with a more expansive style and a less rigid defensive system, the Frenchman would be capable of faring a lot better.