Three replacements for former Chelsea star Cesc Fabregas
After 350 Premier League appearances, two Premier League titles and countless other achievements on English soil, Cesc Fabregas has finally bid goodbye to the Premier League. Over the course of two different spells, the first with Arsenal and the second with Chelsea, the Spaniard etched himself into history and many believe that Chelsea might struggle to replace him.
While the 31-year-old saw himself replaced by Jorginho this season making just 16 appearances before his departure, with most of them coming off the bench. Now with the January window open and Fabregas making a move to AS Monaco, the Blues need replacements. That being said, here are three potential replacements, Chelsea can target to replace the World Cup winner.
#3 Nicolo Barella
At 21, Nicolo Barella has already made just under 100 appearances for Cagliari, with 20 appearances this season alone so far. A central midfielder by trade, Barella can also play further up or further down the field but it’s his technical expertise that makes that much more valuable to the Blues.
Cool, calm and relaxed in possession, the 21-year-old bears a remarkable resemblance to the older Cesc Fabregas and for Italy, having him learn from Jorginho helps them out. That said, the 21-year-old still needs time to adjust to playing football in the Serie A and thus, should opt to stay for another six months before making the jump.
#2 Donny van de Beek
A great midfielder, the Dutchman has sparked a resurgence in recent months after struggling at the start of the season. Like Jorginho and even Fabregas in his later years, van de Beek is a regista which make him a genius at dictating play for the Eredivisie giants. That combined with his defensive work and his composure on the ball make him a great target for any side.
However, it’s truly Cesc Fabregas’ passing range that the Blues are looking to replace and Donny van de Beek does that brilliantly. His ability to shift the defence into attack and play further forward makes him a great asset to the Blues if they do make a move.
#1 Lorenzo Pellegrini
Easily the best option on this list but also the most expensive, the 22-year-old arrived last season at AS Roma after leaving during the summer of 2015. It was a move many Roma fans hoped would happen and given Lorenzo Pellegrini’s performances for Sassuolo, it’s no surprise why. The Italian oozed confidence in the midfield, adding composure and a brilliant eye for a pass, thanks to regular first-team football.
Tall, agile and quick on his feet, the 22-year-old would slot perfectly alongside Jorginho and N’Golo Kante, two world-class midfielders, and look at home doing it. That combined with the fact that he has no weak foot and resembles a young Fabregas does make it a no-brainer for Chelsea.
