Chelsea transfer targets: David Luiz, Stewart Downing
Chelsea pursue David Luiz
Defending English Premier League champions Chelsea are determined to sign David Luiz in the January transfer window. The Blues are involved in talks over the Brazilian defender with Benfica and it is understood that it is only
a matter of time before a deal is agreed upon.
The 23-year-old defender seems like the perfect signing to bolster Chelsea’s tired, failing defence. Luiz will partner captain John Terry in central defence, leaving Branislav Ivanovic to return to the right back position.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side originally offered €25 million plus Portuguese defender Paulo Ferreira, a bid that was rejected by Benfica. However, the London club is desperate to bring the young defender to Stamford Bridge and it is considering
increasing the bid to about €30 million.
Benfica originally stated they were not willing to discuss a move for Luiz since they wanted to retain his services until the end of summer. However, sources reveal that if Chelsea agree to the €30 million price, Benfica would
be willing to negotiate.
Because of lack of funds made available to Ancelotti, the Blues have already missed out on some of their target transfers. One of them was Steven Pienaar, who decided on a move to Tottenham Hotspur instead when Chelsea did not
meet his wage requirement.
Having also been linked with Diego Godin and Neven Subotic, the Blues need to bring in reinforcements to improve their squad if they wish to finish in the top four of the Premier League.
Ancelotti interested in Aston Villa’s Stewart Downing
Media reports reveal Carlo Ancelotti is interested in signing Aston Villa’s winger Stewart Downing after they failed to secure Steven Pienaar’s signature. The former Everton player chose Tottenham over Chelsea after the Blues refused
to match the Spurs bid.
However, with an ageing squad and very little replacements, Ancelotti is determined to bring in new players over the winter transfer window to bolster the squad. Chelsea are currently ranked fourth in the Premier League table
and need to remain consistent if they wish to qualify for Champions League football next season.
Downing has also caught the attention of other Premier League sides, such as Liverpool and Sunderland. The winger would fit in nicely with the existing squad, but it remains to be seen if Chelsea make an official bid for the player.