Chelsea face battle with Inter Milan and AS Monaco for signing of Ligue 1 star.
Chelsea are in competition with Internazionale for the signature of AS Saint-Etienne centre back Kurt Zouma, who has been hailed as a future France captain by current national team boss Didier Deschamps.
With doubts over the future of Chelsea captain John Terry, whose contract is up in the summer, Blues boss Jose Mourinho is understandably already eyeing a replacement.
Serie A giants Inter Milan and nouveau riche Ligue 1 outfit AS Monaco have already each submitted bids of £9 million earlier this month, according to the Times.
Although ASSE are reluctant to lose their prize asset this month, their hand may be forced in the January transfer window – particularly if Chelsea make them an offer they cannot refuse.
Zouma is a hugely impressive defender for just 19 years of age, with a imposing physical presence and mature tactical sense of positioning.
The teenager is good in the air, and strong in the tackle – as Sochaux midfielder Thomas Guerbert can attest.
A full blooded challenge from Zouma broke Guerbert’s leg in November, resulting in a ten match ban for the Saint-Etienne stopper.
That illustrates that there remains plenty of rawness to Zouma’s game, and plenty of refinement required.
Perhaps that will come at Stamford Bridge.
COMMENTS