Chelsea in the hunt for Serie A veteran
Sources are suggesting that Chelsea may be looking to sign Napoli’s star utility player, Christian Maggio, after the Italian’s breathtaking year in Serie A.
Operating mainly as a right-back, Maggio has shown his capabilities in attack when thrown on to the wing as a part of the 3-5-2 attacking formation that Napoli used to such effectiveness last season.
The right-sided attacker made his debut for the Italian national side in 2008 but saw his appearances limited until 2010 when Cesare Prandelli started to utilize Maggio more extensively in the right-back position.
At 29 years-old, the versatile playmaker presents little sell-on value but the Blues may be tempted to squeeze the best years out of Maggio’s career and allow him to show that quality on the scale of the Premier League.
Chelsea may be looking at Maggio as a defender who can operate in midfield or vice versa, with possible departures in both areas.
The aging Ashley Cole and John Terry have both been associated with moves away from Stamford Bridge over the past year and in midfield, Salomon Kalou and Florent Malouda could both be looking at an exit from the club.
Maggio would provide competition for Jose Bosingwa and Branislav Ivanovic in the right-back position as well as giving Andre Villas-Boas the option of another wide man, something that neither the Portuguese or Serbian international can boast as well.
Due to his age, Maggio could be available for a fee of moderate value and Napoli could be tempted into cashing in on the star now before losing him for a smaller sum in a season or two.
