Why Chelsea should go all out to sign Thomas Meunier in January

Back in 2017, Paris Saint-Germain right-back Thomas Meunier had claimed that Chelsea were interested in signing him but the Ligue 1 giants were reluctant to sell him due to lack of squad depth.

Thomas Meunier, 28, has fuelled speculations about an exit from Paris Saint-Germain after admitting that he is frustrated over his lack of playing time this season.

The right-back – who netted in the 3-0 win against Real Madrid in the Champions League – has featured in just three out of six Ligue 1 games this term. He has found himself down the pecking order behind Thilo Kehrer and Colin Dagba.

Given that the Belgian international is only 28 and could be a regular starter in a number of top European sides, rumours will continue to circulate. 

It is possible he could be available for free next summer if he does not sign a new contract with PSG and he would be a superb signing for a club like Chelsea.

Chelsea are currently serving a two-window transfer ban for breaching FIFA rules related to the transfer of minors. However, the Blues remain hopeful of having the embargo reduced in January after launching an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Cesar Azpilicueta has really struggled this season in the high-intense style of play under Frank Lampard.

He is the captain of the side and has been one of the most consistent players in the Premier League for the last few years, playing a big part in some of Chelsea’s success in that time. However, the Spaniard has shown signs of ageing and is clearly not the player he used to be.

Young Reece James has attained full fitness following a lengthy spell on the sidelines with an ankle ligament injury. He has been earmarked to challenge Azpilicueta for his right-back position upon his return. But the Englishman is only 19 and Lampard will need to handle him carefully.

With Azpilicueta ageing and James not yet ready to start games week in and week out for Chelsea, Lampard should bring in Meunier.

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Meunier has carved out a big reputation for himself as one of the best attacking full-backs in Europe. He boasts a combination of attacking and defensive attributes required in a modern full-back.

The Belgian can be a real asset to any team with his composure at the back and ability to provide width to the attack further up the pitch.

Verdict

Given his volumes of experience in Europe, one would expect Meunier to fit seamlessly into Lampard’s plans at Stamford Bridge. 

All in all, the Blues should look to move on Azpilicueta and bring in Meunier to compete with James at right-back.