Diego Simeone unsuprised by Chelsea’s interest in Jan Oblak
Frank Lampard is planning a major squad reshuffle at Chelsea this season.
After a topsy turvy season thus far for Chelsea, manager Frank Lampard is keen to impart consistency to his squad which has shown a lot of promise this term. For that, English tactician is planning a substantial change to the group of players which has a decent clutch of experienced campaigners.
Eager to continue his policy of building a successful side with youth, Lampard, till now, has identified Billy Gilmour, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Christian Pulisic, Mason Mount, Tammy Abraham, and a few others as a vital part of his core players for the upcoming season.
Signings of Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner has injected some much-needed quality and freshness to the Chelsea roster. Yet, the Blues have to make a few more important decisions in the upcoming transfer market to bridge the gap between themselves and league top-dogs Man City and Liverpool.
Kai Havertz is the recent name which has several admirers within the club hierarchy as they plan to make an official bid for the rising German talent. But, despite a formidable investment in the attacking department, the defence is the area which needs urgent addressing,
It seems Chelsea have understood the need for a solid foundation to allow their attacking talents to thrive. To work in this direction, as reports suggest, Jan Oblak has been identified as an able candidate to be the guarding force between the sticks for the London club.
Diego Simeone, Jan Oblak’s current manager at Atletico Madrid, is aware that his premium goalkeeper could be enticed by a lucrative move to England. Regarding this, the Argentine boss is not surprised by Chelsea’s rumoured interest in the player.
"“It is normal that they want a goalkeeper of the characteristics and value that Oblak has and it doesn’t surprise me because he is very good,”“For us, he is decisive, very important in the dressing room, he is our captain.”“Year after year he has managed to evolve in all the matches, from goalkeeper to his handling with the group, and hopefully he can continue with us.” (Quotes from Cadena SAR via Sport Witness)"
Also, Simeone hopes that Oblak rejects interest from elsewhere to continue his adventure with the Rojiblancos. The Slovenia international, after an uncertain future last summer amid interest from Manchester United, penned a contract extension with the Madrid club.
"“It is normal to always look for the best, and we have many who are very good, some previous seasons have left, others have stayed, and it is logical and normal for a footballer like Oblak to be loved by anyone.”“For us, he is our captain, an important player year after year and hopefully we can continue to count on his work, which is enormous for Atlético de Madrid.”"
To sign the 27-year-old shot-stopper, Chelsea would have to make an enormous financial offer around £100m, breaking their own record of £71.5, the highest fee for a goalkeeper, paid to lure Kepa Arrizabalaga from Athletic Bilbao in 2018.
Must Read. 3 things Jan Oblak would give Chelsea that Kepa doesn’t. light
Do you think Oblak will sign for Chelsea?