Chelsea and Roma have held a meeting about Roger Ibanez as Mauricio Pochettino aims to bolster his defence at Stamford Bridge.
Well – according to Roma Giallorossa – Chelsea met with Tiago Pinto, Roma’s Director of Football, in London on Friday to discuss a deal for the Brazil international.
Ibanez is described by the Italian news outlet as someone who is definitely leaving Roma this summer.
The Italian giants are hoping to receive a fee of around €30m – €35m (£26m – £30m) for the South American, with Tottenham and West Ham also holding talks about signing the defender.
If a deal did happen, Mourinho would surely be devastated to lose Ibanez.
The Portuguese tactician previously described the 24-year-old as someone who “always shows up” as he heaped praise on the centre-back for his constant availability.
Mourinho is quoted by Roma’s official website as saying: “Last year we went through a spell where he was the only central defender, with Chris Smalling injured and Gianluca Mancini and Marash Kumbulla suspended. He was there every single game. When we went to Seville to face Real Betis earlier this season, the morning of the game I saw him and thought it was going to be impossible for him to play. And yet he played. He’s one who always shows up.
“For me he is untouchable.”
Pinto and Chelsea also spoke about Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
Roma Giallorossa believe Mourinho would love to be reunited with the England international in Rome, after talks over a move to AC Milan broke down following the sacking of Paolo Maldini.
Chelsea do not need Ibanez
In our view, Chelsea have no need for Ibanez.
Pochettino already has the likes of Thiago Silva, Trevor Chalobah, Wesley Fofana and Levi Colwill in his centre-back department, not to mention Kalidou Koulibaly as well – although the Senegal international is wanted by clubs in Saudi Arabia.
Therefore, unless Chelsea lose at least two of these options, there is no need to sign another central defender.
Nevertheless, Roma Giallorossa believe a meeting was held over Ibanez, so be sure to keep an eye on the situation.