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Chelsea lead the race for Kostas Manolas
Chelsea's hunt for a new defender carries on as the latest name to be linked with the 2017/18 FA Cup Winners is AS Roma's Kostas Manolas, as per the Express UK.
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Similarly, Arsenal have also been monitoring the Greek defender but it is believed that Chelsea are ready to meet Manolas' €36 million release clause and are in pole position to secure the deal. The Blues are prepared to offer him a significant hike on weekly wages compared which will see him earn €5 million per year in West London.
The 27-year-old has grown as one of the best centre-backs in Europe over the past few years. He has been an ever-present component in the Roma starting lineup as his leadership at the back has attained Roma significant success in recent seasons with the Giallorossi having qualified for each of the last four Champions League campaigns.
Last season, Manolas made 27 appearances in the league, averaging 1.6 interceptions, 4.5 clearances per game and scored two goals as well. His aerial ability is his biggest strengths as he tends to win a number of aerial battles and averaged two successful headers per match in all competitions last campaign.
