NAPLES, ITALY - NOVEMBER 22: Alessio Romagnoli of AC Milan during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and AC Milan at Stadio San Paolo on November 22, 2020 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
According to 90min (h/t Football.london), Chelsea are reportedly keeping tabs on the situation of Alessio Romagnoli at AC Milan. It has been said that Chelsea have asked Mino Raiola, his agent, to keep them updated about any developments. Romagnoli’s current deal expires in the next 18 months and Frank Lampard believes that a deal can be made to sign him at a lower price.
A youth exponent of AS Roma, Alessio Romagnoli made his professional debut for the Giallorossi back in the 2012-13 season. However, he struggled to establish himself as a first-team regular at the Italian capital, making only 14 appearances in all competitions over the course of two seasons.
Romagnoli built a good reputation for himself during a productive loan spell at Sampdoria during the 2014-15 campaign before joining AC Milan on a permanent deal in the summer of 2015. He has since established himself as one of the most consistent defenders in the Serie A over the past few seasons, racking up a staggering 199 appearances for the Rossoneri in all competitions, scoring 9 times.
The 25-year-old represented Italy across various levels between U-16 and U-21 before making his senior international debut in 2016. Romagnoli has amassed 12 caps for the Azzurri, scoring twice.
Chelsea have been one of the better teams this season after a summer of gargantuan spending. One of their signings though, was questioned as it seemed like a stop-gap solution to their defensive problems – Thiago Silva. However, the Brazilian has proved that he is as competent as ever, even at 36 years of age. There have also been talks of extending his current one year deal (source – Daily Star).
While that’s all good, Chelsea do need to keep in mind that he will be 37 at the start of next season. An established young defender would be needed. Alessio Romagnoli could be a fantastic option for Chelsea to pursue in that case.
The Italy international has proven his quality at the highest level in his homeland. At 25, he seems to be matured enough to embark on a new journey in English football. Alessio Romagnoli would be an excellent addition to bolster the club’s backline.
The 25-year-old ticks the box as a proven performer in Italy and still has his best years ahead of him. The Blues should, therefore, go all out in their pursuit of the centre-back in January.
