Chelsea are deservedly leading the charts in the Premier League with a three-point lead over closest rivals, Arsenal. Antonio Conte has completely changed the mood around the club, with his trademark 3-4-3 formation working wonders for the Blues.
Along with their attack, Chelsea's defence has been the strong point of their title surge and it is now being reported that Conte is looking to bolster his options even further in January with a move for Virgil van Dijk next month.
The Blues have a settled back three in the form of Cesar Azpilicueta, David Luiz and Gary Cahill and along with John Terry on the bench and Kurt Zouma recuperating from a long-term injury, a move for Van Dijk seems odd. But Conte wants to make the Chelsea defence almost rock solid which can be done with the Dutch’s arrival.
However, the London-based club have to fight it out against the likes of Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool if they want to secure his services.
Van Dijk has been one of the best defenders in the Premier League since his £13 million move from Celtic last September. His resolute defence has made him one if the most sought after names in the January transfer window with Southampton manager Claude Puel singing his praises recently.
He said, "Van Dijk is a great player now. But he has a contract with Southampton and it is important he stays to continue his work. He must become one of the best five or six defenders in the world. He has the capacity. It is important he continues with stability and Southampton is a good club for him.”
Former Chelsea midfielder and pundit Ray Wilkins also thinks that signing Van Dijk will guarantee the league title for the Blues. He said, "Van Dijk has had a fantastic time since he has come down Celtic, almost looked a little bit of a snip for what Southampton got him for.
“He has improved and he looks a very good defender. He would bring on the youngsters coming through as well because he is excellent on the communication side of stuff. He would be a perfect fit for Chelsea.”
The 25-year old has a release clause of around £25 million as a move for Chelsea seems the most likely for him with both the Manchester clubs struggling currently and the Blues offering a more stable environment to the Dutchman.
