Aston Villa have completed the signing of the left-back, but Chelsea were right not to spend £25M on Lucas Digne.
Villa unveiled the Frenchman and the deal delighted manager Steven Gerrard who rates Lucas Digne highly.
“When Lucas became available we jumped at the opportunity to bring him to the club. “To sign a player of his pedigree and quality in the January window is a great addition to our squad and his arrival excites me and everyone associated with Aston Villa.”
Lucas Digne Signs For Villa
Chelsea were linked with the left-back as they seek cover for Ben Chilwell, who will be out till the end of the season. Digne fits the bill except Chelsea preferred a loan move. They did not want to spend £25M on a backup player.
Let`s take a look at three reasons why Chelsea were right not to spend on Digne this month.
1- Big Club Problem?: Quite frankly Lucas Digne failed at the two biggest clubs he played for. He could not nail down a regular position at PSG. He made only 44 appearances for PSG before he was sold to Barcelona in 2016.
Digne also failed at Barcelona before finding his level in the Premier League with Everton. Digne has a track record of not performing well at big clubs. So, why take the risk when he is already 28 years old?
2- The Football Part: Emerson understands what Thomas Tuchel wants as the Italian played under him last year. Emerson is very familiar with the role, unlike Digne who will need time to master the role. Emerson has played as a wing-back in the Final of the Euros, and he knows what it takes to excel as one.
3- Price: Chelsea thought £25M for Lucas Digne was too much for a player who is 28 years old and wants out of the club. Benitez has already signed a replacement and he also wanted out of the club. He will only cover for Ben Chilwell until he recovers.
Chelsea made a fantastic decision not to spend £25M on Digne as Emerson is a better option. It remains to be seen if Emerson`s recall from Lyon will be successful as Lyon are holding out. Chelsea have tried to offer compensation. However, the French club wants to hold unto Emerson Palmieri, and that shows the Italian`s quality.
