Chelsea ‘Have Their Eyes’ On Signing 18 Year Old Defender Who Already Has 2 Senior Caps For Italy
Chelsea could make a second raid on Atalanta this summer by making a move for centre-back Honest Ahanor, according to reports in the Italian media.
Tuttomercatoweb (TMW) claim that the Blues “have their eyes” on the teenager, who had a breakout season after joining Atalanta from Genoa last year.
Ahanor made 35 appearances in all competitions, with 19 starts in total, despite the fact that he only turned 18 back in February.
His performances have been sufficiently impressive for him to get called up by Italy’s senior side.
Ahanor received his first cap after making a cameo appearance in the 1-0 friendly win against Luxembourg early last month. He then played the first half versus Greece in another friendly a few days later.
Would Atalanta sell him after sanctioning Palestra’s move?
Having already allowed another young defender, Marco Palestra, to make the switch to Stamford Bridge, it would be a surprise if the Serie A side were prepared to let Ahanor go too.
Xabi Alonso’s side are not his only suitors, with TMW also mentioning Brighton as a potential destination, so it is unlikely that the young centre-half will be available for a low price, with there also being competition for his signature.
Chelsea want a leader at the back
Alonso is keen to bring in reinforcements for the centre of defence, but the Blues are believed to be focusing on recruiting more senior players.
Crystal Palace’s Maxence Lacroix is regarded as the top target. At the time of writing, a formal offer has still not been lodged for the France international, but he remains the priority.
Como’s Jacobo Ramon is thought to be the backup option. The Spaniard worked under Alonso in Real Madrid’s academy several years ago.
At 21 years of age, though, he is only slightly more experienced than Ahanor, which would raise questions about his suitability if he is pursued instead of Lacroix.
