Rumour: Chelsea reportedly submit big bid for Mehdi Benatia

Mehdi Benatia

Chelsea have submitted a huge €38 million offer for Roma’s star defender Mehdi Benatia and have also included Romelu Lukaku in the deal, according to Tutto Mercato Web.

Benatia had a fantastic season in Serie A for Roma last season as they challenged eventual champions Juventus for top spot in Italy. The Romans started the season by winning their first 10 matches and Benatia was a key player throughout.

The huge Italian club will return to the Champions League next season with the helping hand of Benatia but Chelsea are poised to steal him from under their noses. Their enormous bid that includes the services of Lukaku could be an attractive one for the Italians.

Should the bid be accepted, it would see the Belgian striker Lukaku move to Rome for his next adventure. He is yet to convince Jose Mourinho that he can be a success at Chelsea despite scoring 33 league goals in two seasons for West Bromwich Albion and Everton.

The deal would see him move to Roma permanently with the chances of Diego Costa moving to Stamford Bridge looking high.

After Benatia’s fantastic season, many clubs around Europe have been linked to the powerful defender. Barcelona are one of the clubs linked and he flirted with them, claiming he was flattered to be linked to such a big club.

“It is the dream for every footballer to play for the Camp Nou side,” he said.

It is believed that Manchester United have also shown an interest in Benatia but with these reports claiming Chelsea have made the first move, the other clubs could be set to spark their interest up to the next level.

Benatia scored five goals in Serie A last season, more than he created chances (4).