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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Jonathan Gorrie

Maurizio Sarri a ‘fan’ of Chelsea FC midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek who ‘likes Serie A’

Jonathan Barnett, the agent of Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek, hinted his client could be interested in a move to Serie A this summer.

The midfielder had been linked with a move to Lazio last summer following the appointment of former manager Maurizio Sarri, although a move failed to materialise.

Loftus-Cheek, who has previously struggled for consistency amid a number of injury problems, would go on to make 40 appearances across all competitions under Thomas Tuchel last season.

Still, the England international is now into the final two years of his contract at Stamford Bridge, presenting the club with a decision to make.

While this summer has already seen the likes of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen depart amid doubts over the futures of Romelu Lukaku, Marcos Alonso and Cesar Azpilicueta, the chance to raise more funds could be a welcome idea during a summer in which Tuchel is keen to strengthen a number of attacking positions.

Barnett admits Sarri is a “fan” of the Chelsea academy graduate after a successful season together during the Italian’s season in west London back in 2018-19.

That year, Loftus-Cheek would score 10 goals and register a further 5 assists in 40 appearances, with Sarri even suggesting the player could “become one of the best midfielders in Europe.”

Speaking to Il Messagerro, Barnett said: “Lazio have not spoken to Chelsea as far as I’m aware.

“But Maurizio Sarri is a fan of Ruben [Loftus-Cheek] and he likes Serie A. Let’s see what happens.”

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