It might not be a priority as things stand, but Chelsea may have to enter the transfer market to sign a goal-scoring midfielder this summer if Enzo Fernandez leaves.
Priorities for Xabi Alonso ahead of the summer window include a new goalkeeper, a centre-back, a left-sided winger and competition for Joao Pedro. But that could change if Chelsea need replacements.
You can only keep one, Enzo Fernandez or Cole Palmer. Who are you choosing?
Tell us who but also why!
Enzo Fernandez has been strongly linked with a departure, while Monaco have made a bid for Romeo Lavia. It might be that Chelsea need to sign a new midfielder, and Inter Milan could help Chelsea out.
Inter have already completed two permanent signings this summer after winning the Serie A title. One of those was defender Manuel Akanji, turning his loan deal from Manchester City into a permanent transfer.
Chelsea could make a surprise move for Aleksandar Stankovic
The other is Serbia star Stankovic, after a stunning season at Club Brugge. Inter sold Stankovic to the Belgian side last summer but included a buyback clause, which the Italian giants have now activated.
It cost Inter just £20m to rebuy him. Now, according to TMW, Stankovic’s future hinges on whether he can impress manager Christian Chivu, and whether Inter Milan’s hierarchy would prefer a very quick profit.
Chelsea have been linked with Stankovic in the last few months, after a season which saw Stankovic have a hand in 14 goals from midfield in 55 appearances. TMW say Inter value Stankovic at around £35m.
Dejan Stankovic comparison and Chelsea target’s dream club
Stankovic is an old-school midfielder. One that has an impact in both boxes and is solid in the air. The kind of midfielder Chelsea could do with, given each Chelsea midfielder specialises in only one area.
Xabi Alonso has his SEVEN Chelsea ‘untouchables’ 👀
Do you agree with them?
- Reece James
- Cole Palmer
- Joao Pedro
- Estevao Willian
- Moises Caicedo
- Josh Acheampong
- Levi Colwill
Moises Caicedo, Andrey Santos and Lavia are not known for their attacking qualities, while Fernandez has been used in the 10 role at times, such is his attacking prowess. Chelsea need a player that does both.
Able to create and score goals, Stankovic would be a cheap, solid replacement for the Argentine. He might not be an immediate, short-term alternative, but he has the potential to reach Fernandez’s level.
Even his Father, Inter Milan legend Dejan Stankovic, believes his son is better than he was at his age. But the player himself has described Inter as his “dream” club, and he will be hellbent on convincing Chivu.
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