David Alaba will only be persuaded to sign for Chelsea or any of his other interested suitors if they meet his special request, according to Matt Law.
Speaking on the London Is Blue podcast, the Telegraph’s Football News Correspondent claimed the mercurial centre-back had explained exactly what he wanted from whoever manages to secure him next.
“I’m told by a very good source that he wants to go to a club who will offer him opportunities in defensive midfield,” said Law.
Alaba bid farewell to Bayern Munich after 13 years of glorious service that involved winning nine Bundesliga’s and two Champions Leagues titles.
Understandably, the heavyweights of Europe all leaped forward to show their aspirations at giving him a new home.
Chelsea, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester United, and Manchester City have all reportedly shown interest (Sky Sports).
This desire from Alaba to play defensive midfield has pluses and minuses for the Blues.
In the current squad, only N’Golo Kante really fits this description. An additional option in that area of the field would be welcomed.
However, it does mean that another player could have to make way for Alaba’s appearance – and his arrival could actually put Kante’s future in doubt, as Thomas Tuchel has rarely picked him so far.
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Play him upfront if that’s what it will take to get Alaba. With Thomas Tuchel’s flexible system, I’m sure he could fit the Austrian anywhere on the pitch to good impact.
His apparent love for Kante should mean the Frenchman won’t be going anywhere in the summer.
But Chelsea will have to reshuffle their pack somewhere, so I fear young Billy Gilmour could be the one sacrificed, if Alaba was to pick us over Real Madrid.
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