Jose Mourinho has admitted that he is looking to recruit another central midfielder at Chelsea this summer.
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While the Portuguese coach has indicated that he is looking to introduce more competition into his squad [Express], the new arrival may well be a direct replacement for John Obi Mikel.
The Nigeria international has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge with Al Ain and Fenerbahce both linked with a move for the Super Eagle [Standard].
While Barcelona’s Alex Song is rumoured to be the Blues’ top target to replace Mikel [Mundo Deportivo], in this feature we consider some other alternatives to replace the long-serving central midfielder.
Axel Witsel
According to Goal, Chelsea have made Axel Witsel their one of their primary transfer targets ahead of the summer.
The Zenit St. Petersburg midfielder is a fantastic performer, who thrives in the box-to-box role; he possesses the physical capacity to be a defensive operator, while also boasting the energy and the technique to be an offensive contributor.
However, the Pensioners may well face competition from Manchester United for the signing of the Belgium international.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
Chelsea look like they’re playing hard-ball with regards to Petr Cech’s departure from the club.
However, they may soften their approach if one of the keeper’s suitors—Arsenal—were to offer one of their stars in return.
The Metro have identified Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain as a possible candidate for a part-exchange deal, and the England international would be a talented, versatile option for Mourinho.
Paul Pogba
It remains to be seen whether Paul Pogba will leave Juventus this summer.
If he does, there will surely be intense competition for his signature, with the likes of Manchester City and Real Madrid both linked to his signature.
Paris Saint-Germain are also keen to bring the Paris native back to France, while Barcelona have publicly indicated their interest in the midfielder.
However, could Jose Mourinho’s star power tempt Pogba to join the English champions?
Ilkay Gundogan
While Ilkay Gundogan may have been primarily tipped to move to Manchester United this summer as a long-term replacement for Michael Carrick, the Express report that Chelsea are also keen on the talented deep-lying creator.
Gundogan has had his injury concerns in the past, but his technical prowess and ability to control a game would make him a potentially valuable addition for the Pensioners.
Alex Song
Cameroon midfielder Alex Song would be a safe bet for Mourinho. The current Barcelona man is a proven Premier League performer, having starred with both Arsenal and, latterly, with West Ham United.
While the Hammers may still look to sign the versatile campaigner on a permanent deal, they would struggle to sign Song should Chelsea come calling.
It looks highly unlikely that the midfielder still has a role to play in Catalonia.