THREE Centre-Backs Who Could Replace David Luiz For Chelsea

Chelsea are a team who have been left with a sour taste in their mouth after the 2013/14 season ended trophyless for them, despite the return of ‘The Special One’. Jose Mourinho is now more determined than ever to win a trophy and he is eyeing the big one: the Premier League title. So far the Portuguese manager has made some big steps in his pursuit of Premier League glory next season, as he has bought Diego Costa and Cesc Fabregas. These are two great signings who will vastly improve Chelsea’s attack. However, the club have also sold David Luiz, weakening their defence.

Here are three centre-backs that the Blues could sign to replace Luiz:

1. Mehdi Benatia – The Roma centre-back had an incredible season in last year’s Serie A. He kept everything ticking over in defence and provided one of the strongest foundations in Europe. Not a lot got past Benatia’s defence and that is a credit to his leadership qualities and also his ability as a defender. He will be very expensive, but David Luiz was sold for an extraordinary amount so it is not like Chelsea won’t have the funds.

2. Eliaquim Mangala – The Porto defender is everything you want in a modern centre-back, as he is as good with his feet as he is at defending. He is a powerful player who possesses pace as well as strength. His height gives him an advantage in the air and that is why wins most most aerial duels. It also makes him a danger when attacking set-pieces. Nothing strikes fear into an opponent more than having to defend a set-piece against a cente-back who is famed for being dangerous in these positions. In that sense, Mangala is very much like Gary Cahill and John Terry.

3. Mats Hummels – The German always features on these lists as he is such a good defender. However, injuries have prevented him from really unlocking his potential. Nevertheless, when fit, he is a crucial player for club and country. Like Mangala, he possesses all the qualities that a modern centre-back should have. The Borussia Dortmund man is very dynamic and athletic which allows him to make recovery tackles if an opponent gets beyond him. This is a helpful ability to have with the game increasingly becoming faster.