Why Chelsea should beat Man United to the signing of this 31-year-old Italian brick wall

Why Chelsea should beat Manchester United to the signing of Leonardo Bonucci

After much anticipation, Chelsea have finally sacked Antonio Conte after two seasons at the club. The Italian clinched the Premier League title in stylish fashion in his debut season in Englan but the Blues were disappointing last season, which saw the club finish 5^th, one place below Liverpool who occupied the final Champions League spot.

The club have to bolster the squad as the new Premier League season looms large. The club have been linked with AC Milan defender Leonardo Bonucci over the last few days. Milan probably have to sell their star after the club was found guilty of breaching the FFP (Financial Fair Play).

Chelsea are reportedly interested in prizing away the former Juventus defender from the Serie A as they aim to strengthen their defence. In a season where the club’s defensive frailties were totally exposed, the Blues are going to need an additional defender.

The 31-year-old joined Milan from Juventus just a year ago but hasn’t been able to replicate the performances he produced alongside Giorgio Chiellini. A move to Chelsea would probably do the veteran defender a whole lot of good.

He is a very experienced defender who has been playing at the top level for a very long time now. Bonucci is tall, strong and agile. The centre-back also possesses an impressive pace for a defender. At Juventus, Bonucci was a part of a backline that could barely be breached.

Bonucci made a total of 35 appearances in the Serie A last season, scoring 2 goals in the process. He also played 8 games in the Europa League for the Rossoneri. The defender is calm and composed on the ball. He is not fazed under pressure and also boasts an impressive passing range. The 31-year-old averaged a pass success rate of 85.7% in the league last season.

He’s often praised for his commitment and passion on the field. Bonucci is a mean defensive machine who pretty much intimidates any player with his mere presence. The defender averaged 0.9 tackles and 3.7 clearances in the Serie A last season.

At the age of 31, Bonucci has a lot of gas left in his tank and should certainly make the move to the Premier League. Manchester United are also reportedly interested in signing the Italian but a move to Chelsea seems more enticing.

Read more: Why Chelsea should hijack Man City’s move and complete this £53m deal for Serie A superstar

The Blues are not exactly short of central defenders in their team but Bonucci could be the perfect squad player for next season. His experience in Europe is a huge plus point for the club and the defender could help turn Chelsea’s fortunes around next season.