Villareal’s highly-admired centre-back, Pau Torres, has popped up as a possible option for Chelsea heading into the summer transfer window.
According to The Athletic, Torres could be an avenue to explore if all other targets fall through.
Chelsea are in the market for another central defender, as a fair few of Thomas Tuchel’s current squad have 12 months left on their contract.
Antonio Rudiger, Cesar Azpilicueta and Andreas Christensen are all entering into the final stage of their agreement.
Amongst the contenders are names that have been brandished around for a while.
This included Bayern Munich’s Niklas Sule, Jose Gimenez of Atletico Madrid, and Jules Kounde of Sevilla.
Wolfsburg warrior Maxence Lacroix is a newer addition, but not quite as fresh as Torres.
The 24-year-old is already being sounded out by Manchester United, following an excellent individual campaign with Villareal.
Torres topped it of by beating United in the Europa League final and is now preparing to embark on the European Championships with Spain.
He has already earned plaudits from teammate, Vicente Iborra
“Pau is a player with a great present and a great future and, as a team-mate and friend, I wish him the best because he deserves it,” Iborra told El Transistor.
“He has everything to succeed, a well-furnished head and a lot of talent.”
Torres is noted for his speed, and La Razon reported earlier this season that Torres is the fastest defender in Spain, by their metrics.
That could make him an even more appealing target, as he would have the pace to cover in behind if Chelsea played with a three man defence, as well as the ability to carry the ball out from defence.
Villareal will probably battle hard to keep hold of their talented centre-half, who has a deal with the Spanish club until 2024.
But with two of the Premier League giants potential circling for his signature, it might be difficult to tie down Torres for much longer.
Chronicle View
I’m only basing my opinion on one match, but when I saw Torres play against United, I was impressed.
His composure was clear from the first whistle, a characteristic that didn’t fade even into extra time.
Plus, he is left footed, which is a rare commodity in the modern game.
Not to mention La Razon‘s report saying that Torres was the fastest player in La Liga last term.
I think this could be a very astute, underrated piece of business if there is any truth behind The Athletic’s reporting.
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