Chelsea started off their season excellent as they defeated West Ham United 2-1 on Monday at Stamford Bridge. Eden Hazard got the Blues ahead with a penalty, however things were soon level as James Collins put one past Courtois. Diego Costa scored the match-winning goal late in the game. Chelsea are looking for massive improvements this season after recording the worst title defense in the history of Premier League. They have already brought in the likes of N’Golo Kante and Michy Batshuayi, both of whom will add a lot of quality to the side. However, Conte is still looking for players who can contribute in the final third. Chelsea were previously interested in Lukaku, however things seem to have quietened down on that front.
Conte has now shifted his focus in getting Real Madrid midfielder James Rodriguez to Stamford Bridge. The one person who might suffer due to the deal is Cesc Fabregas. The Spanish has seen very little game time under Conte, and there are reports that the manager might use him in a swap deal to get Rodriguez to London. Fabregas was highly influential in the title winning season of 2014-2015, however, after a disappointing last season, his time seems to be nearly an end at Chelsea.
Rodriguez will offer a lot of quality and creativity in the final third. He is excellent at dribbling past defenders. His trickery and movement make it difficult to understand his intentions. He will also provide an excellent option on set pieces. The Columbian international moved to Real Madrid in the summer of 2014 after a stellar World Cup campaign with his national team. However, after enjoying a brilliant first season, Rodriguez has fallen down the pecking order and is currently happy sitting comfortably on the bench.
There were reports earlier that Zidane is looking to offload the superstar midfielder. Which led to interests from top European clubs but Chelsea resources in this field, definitely gives them an advantage over the others. The player will not come cheap but Conte is prepared to break the Chelsea transfer record, if necessary. If the Columbian does move to Stamford Bridge, he is likely to slot in behind the striker in that number 10 role, from where he has been so effective in his career.
If Chelsea can manage to keep hold of Cesc Fabregas in the process then that will even better news. The Spaniard still carries a lot of quality but isn’t the same all round player that he once was.