Chelsea are eying a surprise move for Lazio star Antonio Candreva after the player’s agent, Federico Pastorello, revealed his unhappiness at being overlooked for the vice-captaincy, reports the Metro.
Lucas Biglia has been given the position, and this would seem to have angered the 28-year-old. He scored 11 goals and managed nine assists in 38 games for the Rome-based team last season, and helped them finish an impressive third in Serie A. They ended up just one point behind fierce rivals AS Roma, but still qualified for the Champions League.
“Considering Antonio’s path, I thought he deserved recognition and different consideration,” Federico Pastorello said, “In the way he’s represented himself, he’s shown enough in these last three and a half years.
“It’s not a lack of respect for Biglia or other teammates. Pioli has chosen another way and Candreva has taken it badly. He will continue with his work as he always has, but he can’t hide the deep disappointment. Every summer there are four or five clubs that ask for Candreva, even important clubs playing in the Champions League, but an appointment was never made with them.”
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The winger could be a replacement for Juan Cuadrado, who has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge [Metro]. Jose Mourinho looks likely to lose out to Manchester United in the battle to sign Barcelona ace Pedro [Daily Star], so the Italy international could be another option.
The Blues may well need to strengthen even if Cuadrado doesn’t leave, with the Colombia international failing to manage a single goal or assist since his arrival in January. With title rivals Arsenal and Manchester City both having strengthened this summer, they may need some new signings in order to defend their Premier League and Capital One Cup crowns.