Rumour Reel: Leonardo Bonucci to Chelsea, while Arsenal eye Isco and Darmian to Inter?
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Coral’s rumour reel
Roman Abramovich could be about to splash out in the upcoming winter window, with Leonardo Bonucci to Chelsea linked in today’s back pages.
Antonio Conte’s side have struggled defensively of late and is looking for yet another defender to bolster his weak backline.
Bonucci to Chelsea
According to reports, Blues owner Abramovich has told Conte he is prepared to make a world-record bid for a defender. Juventus centre back Bonucci is the man in question in a potential January move.
After Chelsea’s embarrassing loss to Arsenal, Abramovich made it clear recent performances were not satisfactory, but promised Conte funds in January to turn it around – reports suggest.
Conte managed Bonucci for three years at Juve, where the pair won three consecutive Serie A titles. Bonucci was a mainstay of the manager’s Italy side and can play in a 3-5-2 system, Conte’s preferred formation.
David Luiz returned to Stamford Bridge this summer and looks the same erratic player that left London in 2014. Marcos Alonso meanwhile, is yet to make any real impact.
Therefore, with John Terry ageing and Gary Cahill seeing a dip in form, Bonucci is a must. However, Manchester City failed to sign the Italian international this summer and would likely take some persuading to leave Turin.
Arsenal eye Isco?
Both the Gunners and Man City are reportedly after Real Madrid playmaker Isco. He will reportedly not be offered another contract in the Spanish capital.
The Spaniard has only played 72 minutes of La Liga football this term and looks firmly out of favour with Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane.
Isco has won two Champions League titles in Madrid and is attracting interest from the Premier League. Though the Sky Blues were once linked with the creator when he was at Malaga, Arsenal seem the favourite to land him.
Since his arrival in 2013, Isco has failed to cement his place, but remains a quality player.
Darmian to ditch United?
Matteo Darmian has lost his starting berth in Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United outfit. Inter Milan have now reportedly shown interest in the Italy right back.
His only appearance came in a 1-0 Europa League defeat to Feyenoord and according to reports coming out of Italy, is mulling over a a return to his homeland.
United brought in Darmian during Louis van Gaal’s short tenure and started 24 Premier League games last season. Antonio Valencia is now getting the nod ahead of him.
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