There has already been a huge amount of speculation this summer about Chelsea’s interest in a new midfielder of the defensive persuasion, with Axel Witsel the latest to be linked.
But it’s always been something of a anomaly to us because we think that The Blues already have two world class anchor men in their side. But, while Chelsea star Ramires was a favourite under Rafa Benitez and Carlo Ancelotti, Jose Mourinho seems less keen.
Which is surprising because this guy has myriad qualities. He’s a wonderful athlete who never stops running. He can play in a very disciplined role in front of the defence but also has the ability to get forward and make crucial interventions – never more so than in Chelsea’s victorious march through the semi-finals against Barcelona in 2012.
So, for us, it’s great to hear that the Brazilian will reportedly sit down this summer to discuss a major new deal with the club.
SAMI MOKBEL: Chelsea have opened talks with midfielder Ramires over a bumper new contract.
Initial discussions regarding a new long-term deal for the Brazil international have commenced and will continue over the summer.
Ramires has played 224 times for Chelsea, scoring 34 goals since he moved to the club in 2010. He played 46 times for Jose Mourinho in his first year back at the club as manager. But, last season, he didn’t get as much of a look in as Cesc Fabregas regularly sat alongside the imperious Nemanja Matic in front of the defence.
The report also suggests that John Obi Mikel will leave Chelsea this summer after what could only be described as 9 successful years at the club. Incredibly, the lad is still only 28.
