Chelsea Plan Bid For £60,000-A-Week La Liga Winner

The blues are trying to close on a deal involving Atletico Madrid’s loanee at Southampton, Toby Alderweireld. The club has kept close tabs on him for a while and it is hoped the cordial business relationship they have with the Rojiblancos will help them hopefully in his acquisition by summer.

The 26 year-old defender has been impressive ever since joining the Saints on a season-long loan. He struggled at the Vicente Calderon after been transferred from Ajax, making only 12 league appearances for the Simeone side in his debut season. However, following a loan transfer to the EPL, he has become a solid and key member of the 7th positioned team on the log. Toby has appeared 25 times for the Saints, and has created 7 chances and has a goal to his credit. He has even earned praises from former England international, Michael Owen. During his side’s 6 goals to 1 thrashing of Aston Villa at home during the weekend, Owen, who was co-commentator on BT Sport said of him,

“I think that man, Toby Alderweireld, will be high on the agenda of Ronald Koeman. I really like this lad. He can play in a number of positions, he has really adapted to the Premier League. He is a big, strong lad, good on the ball. I think that he has been very good this season.”

Although Southampton holds first option on the Belgium international, but Atletico can still recall him and sell him for a bigger price, after having paid a penalty clause. It is however said that Atletico handler has plans for the former Ajax defender as he is keen on strengthening his squad. Chelsea also sees him as a replacement to the club’s skipper, John Terry, as he is approaching his last season at the club.