Cesc Fabregas is set to get more game time at Chelsea under Coach Antonio Conte when the football season resumes from next week.
The Spaniard had reduced game time initially as the Italian manager preferred a combination of NemanjaMatic and N’GoloKante at the middle.
The 29-year old subsequently got more game time as his creativity helped him unlock defences in the second half of the season. In 13 stars, Fabregas had 12 assists and scored five times in the league. He was crucial in the final run of games as Chelsea sailed to Premier League victory.
Despite the signing of TiemoueBakayoko from France and the exit of Matic, Fabregas has been promised more game time. The playmaker’s experience would be relied on in certain games but his defensive liabilities would likely limit him as well. As the games come, Conte would decide who fits the strategy more but he has promised to consider the former Arsenal skipper more this term.
Conte has been linked with a move for Leicester City star Danny Drinkwater. The Premier League winner would join to become an extra option as the Blues have many games to play in the forthcoming season. It would be difficult to lure him though as he is an established man in the middle at the King’s Power Stadium.
Chelsea have also been linked with a move for Everton star Ross Barkley. The home grown midfielder has refused a new deal at Goodison Park, preferring to exit like his former teammate RomeluLukaku. Spurs were linked with a move for the player but his wages and transfer cost of around £50 million has stalled the deal. Chelsea could get a local talent in Barkley but the deal for Bakayoko makes it unlikely.