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Newly-appointed Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has laid bare his planned transfer market moves and they make for sweet reading for Chelsea supporters.
The Italian, who has received extensive plaudits for his tutoring of the Italian national team at Euro 2016, has identified three players he hopes to bring to Stamford Bridge in the coming days as reported by the Express. Given that his time at Juventus saw him sign the likes of Andrea Pirlo, Carlos Tevez and Paul Pogba, the Blues boss clearly has an eye for talent.
The first on his hit list is N’Golo Kanté, Chelsea’s pursuit of whom has been well publicised as of late and is, reportedly, almost complete. The Frenchman has been slow to commit to the move, but Conte clearly believes that he will be convinced for a fee around £30 million.
In addition to this, the Italian is keen to attract Napoli centre back Kalidou Koulibaly for £50 million as well as Spanish striker for Alvaro Morata for close to £60 million.
The best of Antonio Conte yesterday…https://t.co/hxTPAeWPPy
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 15, 2016
The signings show a level of optimism and intent not felt around Stamford Bridge for some time, given their dismal form last season. The Chelsea faithful however, along with many of their rivals, still view themselves as a very serious contender for next season’s Premier League.
The fact their new coach clearly feels the same is heartwarming for supporters. At his recent Chelsea press conference, Conte was quoted as saying
“It is important to get back very soon, to fight for the title, get back into the Champions League – because Chelsea is a great club, and a great club must play in the Champions League.”
Given that the London club have already signed Belgian striker Michy Batshuayi for £33 million, all four transfers would bring Chelsea’s total spend to over £170 million should they be completed.
Colm Egan, Pundit Arena
