Gary Cahill could be a shock transfer target for Italian giants Juventus

It’s a rarity, even nowadays, that England internationals move abroad to play their football. This is why it has come as a shock to many that Chelsea skipper Gary Cahill is on the radar of Italian club Juventus.

Alvise Cagnazzo of The Sun has reported there has been initial contact from the Italian super club with Cahill’s club Chelsea.

There is a great deal of uncertainty surrounding the future of Gary Cahill. There’s no denying he’s been a loyal servant to the Blues, but it’s looking increasingly likely that Antonio Conte is making plans without him in mind.

There have been many reports from various outlets that Chelsea are keen on the signing of Southampton’s Virgil Van Dijk. What would that mean for Cahill? The answer to that question is unknown.

It’s not likely that a manager would bench his captain but Antonio Conte has never been one for the ‘football morals’, he simply chooses the team based on talent and how the individuals can make his system work.

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As for Juventus, their transfer window has been pretty poor. They are in dire need of a solid central defensive player to make up for the dismissal of Leonardo Bonucci this summer.

Massimiliano Allegri’s side have failed to land the signatures of many centre back options this summer, it’s a list which includes Jerome Boateng and Eliaquim Mangala.

Would it be a good move for Gary Cahill?

There are a lot of different factors to take into account, so your answers will vary. However, my personal opinion is that the move would benefit Gary Cahill.

The England international has adapted well to the arrival of Antonio Conte’s three at the back system, but he also does well for his country whilst playing with a back four.

Tactical fluidity is something that will serve any player well in the modern era. Allegri is known for being a crafty tactician, in that he likes to try different systems depending on his opponent.

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For this, he obviously needs versatile players. A huge example of the tactical versatility at Juventus is that Mario Mandzukic, a player who was renowned for his aerial and poaching ability in the box, has been played on the wing many times.

However, with Conte, Cahill’s current boss, it’s more of a one way system. Especially from a defensive standpoint, Antonio Conte doesn’t like to change his tactics around and that could lead to Cahill’s best side not being shown.

I believe that it’s unlikely Chelsea will be looking to ship off more players this summer, but with Conte having close relations to Juventus, it is possible. Only time will tell.