Chelsea are interested in Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Jonas Hofmann who has already played under Thomas Tuchel at Borussia Dortmund before, according to German outlet Kicker.
The 28-year-old has had the best season of his career so far and, according to the report, attracted interest from Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, and La Liga clubs.
The Germany international has had six goals and 11 assists for Monchengladbach from 24 Bundesliga appearances.
Hofmann, a versatile wide playmaker
What makes Hofmann such an interesting player is his versatility. He mostly plays in wide attacking roles, has also played as a centre-forward and even a No.6 this season.
At Chelsea, Tuchel of course already has plenty of versatile players in the likes of Kai Havertz and Mason Mount.
But unlike these two who are more of ball carriers, Hofmann is a playmaker and a very good crosser.
According to Opta (via Whoscored) he averages 2.4 key passes per game in Bundesliga. That is more than any Chelsea player [in PL] aside from Mount [also 2.4 key passes per game].
Hofmann also averages 2.1 accurate crosses per game, while Chelsea’s best this season Mount averages 1.7 per game.
Obviously, having a good season in the Bundesliga does not always translate to success in the Premier League. But Hofmann might at least find adapting to a new league and club easier under a familiar face.
Enjoyed working under Tuchel at Dortmund
Hofmann spent just a season under Tuchel at Signal Iduna Park, but he was full of praise of the manager’s handling of the club.
“The work we are doing with Thomas Tuchel is very, very positive,” Hofmann told Dortmund’s official website back in 2015.
“When we spoke before the match, it was really clear that there is simply just a good fit between the team and the coach.
“We’ll take some real steps forward under his leadership.”
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