Perhaps the most important element of any team that has ever played a competitive football match, is the midfield. They run everything and literally dictate the game. They will help out the defence when needs be, but also contribute heavily in attack. I know there is no way of definitively which position is most crucial to a team, because it varies depending on the situation. However, without a good midfield your defence becomes weaker and there is no link between the attackers and the rest of the team which which will have repercussions in attack.
Chelsea already have good options in midfield with Nemanja Matic, Ramires, Marco van Ginkel and now Cesc Fabregas. But, as with everything in life, it can be improved upon. The Blues think that the man that will provide that improvement is Luiz Gustavo of Wolfsburg.
The Express are reporting that Arsenal and Manchester United are also part of the race to sign the Brazilian star. However, a price-tag of £26 million may put off some clubs.
In my opinion, Gustavo is worth that amount when you take in to consideration a number of different factors. The Wolfsburg star has shone for Brazil in the World Cup with a couple of assured displays in the centre of the park.
This has resulted in them conceding just one goal so far. He’s a midfield general and will do everything in his power to make sure his side gain the upper hand as early as possible. His athleticism and energy allow him to cover his territory for the full 90 minutes in any game. Gustavo has a keen eye for a pass, but is also quick to stop any attack the opposition try and mount.
I think that Matic and Gustavo can create a midfield so strong, that it could be considered one of the best in the world at some point in the future. It’s a partnership that has everything a manager can dream of. It’s also a midfield that every attacker and defender can wish for. This duo will also have plenty of time to grow and develop as Gustavo is 26 and Matic is 25. The partnership could last for six or seven seasons.
£26 million seems like a bargain now