Barcelona star makes it clear he’s headed to Chelsea
Barcelona will lose Arda Turan to Chelsea
Earlier this week, we brought you the news that Arda Turan was likely heading to Chelsea this summer. Well, now we have even more compelling evidence that indicates the Turkish star sees his future in England.
Reports from Turkey claim that Turan has now purchased a house in the Chelsea area. With all due respect to the residents who choose to live near Stamford Bridge, I doubt Turan has purchased the home because of the quality of the neighborhood. Instead, it’s a clear sign that Turan will be joining Antonio Conte’s club next season.
This isn’t Earth shattering news for fans of either club. Turan has struggled to force his way into Luis Enrique’s starting XI since making the controversial move from Atletico Madrid. Even if, as expected, Barcelona elect to replace Enrique next season, it’s unlikely the 30-year-old midfielder will be a part of the club’s next great squad.
His presence makes a lot more sense for Chelsea. The Blues are already on top of the Premier League and are looking to add players with significant Champions League experience. Conte will be looking to take his club to the next level this season. That means becoming a legitimate threat to win Europe’s most glamorous competition.
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Turan won’t arrive at Stamford Bridge with the pressure of playing every week. Instead, Conte can pick and choose his spots with the talented Turkish midfielder. Turan will be a particularly good fit with Conte due to his positional flexibility. It’s possible that he’ll see action at every spot in the Chelsea midfield.
From the Barcelona perspective, they’ll use whatever funds they receive from Turan’s sale to try to get younger, and more athletic in the midfield. Players like Andres Iniesta and Sergio Busquets have served the Catalan giants well, but are starting to show their age. The club need younger, more dynamic options in the midfield three if they’re going to really threaten Real Madrid as the hegemon of La Liga.
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At this point, Arda Turan has done everything he can to show he’s moving to Chelsea other than tweeting out a picture of himself wearing the Blues’ kit on social media. Perhaps he’s saving that until next week. It’s clear the versatile midfielder won’t be at Barcelona next season.