Right now, central defence looks to be Chelsea’s biggest concern after injuries to Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile.
Chelsea could now try to sign Marc Guehi to solve their issues at the back, but Enzo Maresca also has problems in other areas of his squad.
Romeo Lavia keeps on getting injured, while Reece James cannot stay fit either.
Ultimately, the Chelsea head coach could probably do with another midfielder and full-back. Regarding the former, one very good option appears to be available.
Douglas Luiz open to Premier League return
Douglas Luiz only left Aston Villa last summer; however, it is believed that the 26-year-old has not shut the door on a swift return to the Premier League.
According to Sky Sports, Luiz is open to moving back to England and Juventus are now considering offers for the midfielder.
It has been claimed that Maresca has concerns about Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez, with the pair having to play a lot of games at the minute. With that in mind, bringing in someone like Luiz could make a lot of sense.
He is experienced, familiar with the Premier League and possesses a lot of quality.
“Two goals in a dominant display. He really led his team well,” Alan Shearer said via the Premier League’s official website after one of Luiz’s performances last season.
Jermaine Pennant thinks Douglas Luiz is better than Declan Rice
Arsenal’s Declan Rice is often compared to Caicedo, as both players are similar midfielders who cost more than £100m.
Chelsea fans will feel that Caicedo is the superior footballer, and that has been the case this season. The Ecuadorian has been excellent for the Blues.
For example, he has made the most tackles and interceptions combined in the Premier League (93), according to FBref.
However, if the club were to actually sign Luiz, then they may end up with another midfielder who is better than Rice. That is at least what former Arsenal and Liverpool winger Jermaine Pennant would argue.
When Pennant spoke about the two players last season, he told talkSPORT: “Any team would dream to have Rice, but there are better sixes in the Premier League at the moment.
“I would say Douglas Luiz of Aston Villa, I think he can do everything that Rice can do and better. I think he assists more, he chips in with goals more than Rice. Creativity wise he’s better, flair is better, he can put in a tackle just like Rice, break up play just like Rice.”
If Chelsea are looking to sign a new midfielder this month, then they should absolutely consider putting Luiz on their shortlist.
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