The Austrian has emerged as the latest target for the Blues.
Image source: transfermarkt.com
It is not even the star of the summer transfer window yet Chelsea are making an impact with their transfer business – signings of Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner and the links with an array of exciting names. Now, Bayern Munich’s David Alaba has cropped up on Chelsea’s radar, with Frank Lampard looking to bolster the defence ahead of next season. The Austrian’s contract runs until the summer of 2021, but it is understood that Bayern are looking to offload him at the end of this season to generate funds.
Earlier Bayern Munich manager Hansi Flick had his say on David Alaba’s contract extension, wanting him to continue with the club.
“It goes without saying that not only we but also other clubs see things that way. Everyone knows that I want such a player, who was produced at Bayern and played here for several years, to remain a part of FC Bayern Munich. Alaba’s development as a centre-back has been outstanding.” (h/t Sport Bild)
The Blues are probing for a new left-back in the transfer market as they have been linked with Alex Telles of FC Porto and Leicester City’s Ben Chilwell, with the latter being valued at £70m. Chilwell turns out to be the prime candidate to replace the exit-linked Marcos Alonso and Emerson however his expensive price-tag makes him quite a difficult option.
Having ensured the signing of Timo Werner whilst being linked with Kai Havertz from Bayer Leverkusen and now Alaba, Chelsea’s hunt for the talents in Bundesliga has become evident.
Alaba – a world-class player who can be flexible
Alaba has been predominantly serving as the first-choice left-back for the Bavarians, but it was only until the start of this season. Due to an injury-ravaged back-line coupled with the rise of Alphonso Davies as a left-back, Alaba was fielded as a left-sided centre-back throughout the season for which he didn’t disappoint either. While the defensive numbers ( tackles and interceptions) aren’t standout, which can be normal for a player while adjusting to a new position, Alaba excelled with his ball distribution and passing – vital for Hansi Flick’s system to initiate the plays from the back.
Chelsea’s defence had its pitfalls, and it is one of the areas needed to be fixed ahead of next season. While it is debatable on where to play Alaba in the defence, Lampard can have a player who is flexible with different roles. However, given his success in his new role as a central defender, the Austrian international is a safer bet as a left-sided ball-playing centre-back. Lampard’s system demands the build-up play from the back, and Alaba’s skill set can be used for greater use.
