Opinion : Chelsea should target Nigeria midfielder as a cheaper alternative to Declan Rice

With the transfer window in full swing, Chelsea are in the market for players who would help elevate the squad in quality and depth.

West Ham midfielder Declan Rice has been a long-term target for the Blues but it seems any hopes of bringing the English midfielder to Stamford Bridge are farfetched.

According to sports outlet 90min, West Ham has turned down Chelsea's latest approach to sign Rice. This summer, West Ham have made it clear that they would not let their soon-to-be captain go for less than £150 million.

It is also hoped that Rice would sign a new contract at the club which would effectively end any interest from the Blues for the time being.

However, since Rice is proving a herculean task for Chelsea to lure West Ham into selling, allnigeriasoccer.com thinks the Blues should target Nigerian midfielder Wilfred Ndidi as a cheaper alternative.

There is no denying the influence Ndidi has in any team he plays for either on a club level or internationally.

His special ability to cover a vast amount of space within seconds keeps his team from being exposed to swift counter-attacking situations.

The Leicester City midfielder possesses huge energy levels and mobility that are so difficult to replicate.

He can also defend in a high-press and a low-block. Just like Declan Rice, Ndidi can play as a sole defensive midfielder and also in a pivot.

While Rice's versatility allows him to be pushed forward as an attacking midfielder, Ndidi can be deployed as an emergency centre-back if the need arises.

With Chelsea having an emergency regarding centre-backs, Ndidi may be required there several times over the course of the season.

Ndidi is a great replacement for Rice and Chelsea would do well to target the Super Eagles star.

Sofoluwe Mayowa

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