- Chelsea could have a big advantage over Arsenal and Liverpool in this transfer battle
- The Blues are reportedly lining up a swap deal for Monaco winger Thomas Lemar
- Michy Batshuayi could be eyed by the Ligue 1 giants as part of the deal
- WATCH: Hazard and Willian laugh hysterically at suggestion Chelsea could still catch Man City
Chelsea could have a big advantage over both Arsenal and Liverpool in the potential battle over the transfer of Monaco winger Thomas Lemar this January,
According to the Daily Telegraph, the £80million-rated Frenchman remains a target for the Blues this winter, and Michy Batshuayi could be a realistic option in a potential swap deal for him.
Lemar has been an exciting player to watch in Ligue 1 for the last couple of seasons, and looks like he’d be a great fit at a number of top European sides.
The Daily Mail claimed earlier this season that Arsenal could come back in for Lemar after failing to sign him during the summer, while Liverpool have also been linked as past suitors and also the player’s personally favoured choice by the Liverpool Echo.
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However, the Telegraph claim Monaco’s new sporting director Michael Emenalo, who left Chelsea earlier this season, is a big fan of Batshuayi and could try to sign him again, having previously brought him to Stamford Bridge.
The Belgian striker has barely played for Antonio Conte’s side, and could benefit from leaving for more first-team football ahead of next summer’s World Cup.
While some were concerned when Emenalo left Chelsea this term, that connection could now prove very useful for them as they prepare to raid his new club Monaco.
Lemar to Chelsea – a major potential blow to Arsenal and Liverpool
Lemar moving to Chelsea would certainly be bad news for Arsenal and Liverpool, who both arguably need a player of his quality in attack more than Conte’s side.
Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil are nearing the ends of their contracts at Arsenal, while Liverpool face continuing speculation over Philippe Coutinho’s future at Anfield.
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Don Balon suggest a deal for Coutinho to move to Barca could be on this January in a swap deal, but Lemar would be a more ideal replacement than any of the players the Catalan giants are said to be offering.
Chelsea, meanwhile, already have the likes of Eden Hazard, Pedro and Willian to choose from in attacking midfield and wide positions, though there’s no doubt Lemar would push any of those hard for a regular starting spot.