Chelsea appreciate Como’s Jacobo Ramon and asked about him | OneFootball

Chelsea are interested in signing Como’s Jacobo Ramon, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Como asked about Trevoh Chalobah, who was too expensive for them. Chelsea then enquired about Ramon in return.

Ramon has caught the eye of top clubs after helping the Italian club qualify for Europe for the first time.

The 21-year-old won 67 percent of his aerial and 53% of his ground duels in 32 Serie A appearances, earning plaudits for his ability to star in a back three or four.

He helped keep 14 clean sheets. The Spaniard also caught the eye with his progressive passing and carrying, earmarking himself as one of the best young defenders in Europe.

Ramon is not the only name on the Chelsea shortlist as they are eyeing four or five targets. Maxence Lacroix is one of them. It remains unclear which option the Blues will push for.

Chelsea will also be wary that Madrid hold an option to bring the Spaniard back this summer and a 50% sell-on clause.

Ramon vs Lacroix: Who should Chelsea sign?

Chelsea undoubtedly need a more aggressive presence at the heart of their defence, and Lacroix’s Premier League experience makes him an appealing option.

His physicality, pace and front-foot defending would give the Club World Cup champions an edge.

However, if the choice comes down to Lacroix or Ramon, Chelsea should back the latter’s higher ceiling.

Ramon is a superb reader of the game, regularly snuffing out danger.

He is dominant in the air, attacking crosses with conviction and getting his head to almost everything in both penalty areas.

Ramon is a genuine threat from set-pieces as well as a reliable last line of defence. He is considerably more accomplished in possession.

His calmness under pressure, progressive passing and willingness to carry the ball through the lines fit perfectly with manager Xabi Alonso’s possession-based philosophy.

Chelsea already have athletic defenders. What they need is a centre-back capable of controlling matches with his intelligence and distribution.