Chelsea wrap up 22 Million Euro Ramires Deal
Ramires, the Brazilian defender is all set to join Premier League side Chelsea for a reported 22 million euros. A statement released by Benfica, his former Portuguese club confirmed the deal. The only thing remaining is the medical, after which the 23 year old will be a Chelsea player. Ramires has been capped 16 times and was in the Brazilian squad for the World Cup. The statement by Benfica read, “Benfica has reached agreement in principle with Chelsea for the transfer of Ramires for a fee of 22 million euros. The agreement will be finalized once the player undergoes medical examinations.”
He is not like every other young player; he has had a successful career in a short time. He is a midfielder with pace, and Chelsea could use someone like him effectively. Last season, even though Chelsea were crowned Champions, it was by a margin of a single point that they beat rivals Manchester United and their midfield was accused of being too stiff. Ramires promises to add a bit of the Brazilian spice that will make Chelsea a more attractive team to watch.
If signed, Ramires will come into a position where Chelsea have two of their best players; Michael Essien and Malouda. Essien has been a Chelsea regular and favourite, and despite missing the last season due to injury, there is no doubt that he will be in the starting squad. Evidence of this was seen in the pre season friendly against Crystal Palace where Essien scored the winner and the only goal of the game. Malouda has also secured his position in the squad with his impressive form last season. So these two stars do not have to worry about their places in the starting eleven.
John Obi Mikel on the other hand, might have to compete for his place. Mikel, who filled in for Essien as the holding midfielder, failed to impress and it is expected that Ramires will be taking his place in the squad. Mikel’s season can be summed up in two words, side pass. Mikel lacks the creative streak and even his signature side passes are not too impressive. It has been argued that Mikel has potential and should be given a chance to develop, but if Chelsea hope to win silverware in the upcoming season, they should go for Ramires, who is a more creative and mature player despite being so young.
Carlo Ancelotti told reporters after signing Benayoun, “We are not in any hurry. We have the whole of August to complete deals. The strategy of the club is clear. Compared to last season, we have lost Belletti, Ballack and Joe Cole, so we will add three players in these positions. So far, we've brought in [Yossi] Benayoun from Liverpool.” This statement suggests that Ancelotti intends to make at least one more possible signing if the Ramires deal goes through.
The other possible signings for Chelsea can be the young German, Mesut Ozil. After his impressive form in the World Cup, he is being wooed by Real Madrid, Barcelona and Manchester United. His skill and movement set him apart from other players of his age, and he has the ability of finding teammates in the tightest of situations. Despite being a first class player, he might have trouble having a guaranteed place in the lineup, with the likes of Kakuta and Ramires.
Another player that Chelsea fans will love to see at Stamford Bridge next season is Atletico Madrid’s Aguero. Aguero seems like the kind of player who will have no problem adapting to whatever formation or system he was expected to play in. He has talent and the potential to improve which makes him a favourite with managers. However, his wage demand is something which Ancelotti will not be willing to entertain, and because of the same reason, Ancelotti had to deny his interest.
Chelsea will hope to conclude the Ramires deal as soon as possible so that the defender is available for the Community Shield this Sunday, where champions Chelsea take on runners up Manchester United.
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