Coentrao on Chelsea radar as Cole struggles continue
Published:
Ashley Cole’s ongoing injury concerns have prompted Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho to consider his options ahead of the January transfer window.
Rib worries have sidelined Cole for much of the current campaign and with Mourinho less than convinced by Ryan Bertrand, extra cover could be on the horizon with Real Madrid’s Fabio Coentrao a likely option.
The 25-year-old Portugal international enjoyed a good working relationship with Mourinho at the Bernabéu but has since fallen down the pecking order under new boss Carlo Ancelotti.
In Jorge Mendes, Mourinho and Coentrao share an agent meaning any move for the Madrid man would be a smooth transition, while Chelsea are unlikely to be put off by the La Liga man’s wage demands.
Coentrao has become increasingly disillusioned with life in Spain and almost joined Chelsea’s rivals Manchester United in a deadline day deal last summer.
This will encourage Mourinho to believe he can land his man on an initial six-month loan deal with a view to making the move permanent should the left-back take to the English game.
This would likely mean the end of Cole’s stay at Stamford Bridge as the England centurion as often stated his dislike of his treatment from away fans and could use the move as an opportunity to sign one last lucrative deal elsewhere.
Despite Chelsea’s problems at left-back this term the west Londoners have conceded just 10 goals in 12 matches and find themselves only four points behind league leaders Arsenal.
Should Coentrao boost their ranks in the New Year the 11/4 on the Blues to lift the title could shorten.
Manchester City’s demolition of Spurs recently laid down a marker for the remaining title challengers, so those feeling second is Chelsea’s best hope this year can back a top two finish at 17/20.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
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