Chelsea Set to Sign £12.6m Midfielder as Replacement for Departing Player

Chelsea are actively pursuing the signing of Hellas Verona midfielder Reda Belahyane for £12.6 million as a replacement for Cesare Casadei, who is expected to leave the club soon.

According to transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio, Chelsea have identified Belahyane as their top target to fill the void left by Casadei’s impending departure. The Blues are said to be pushing hard to complete the deal in the coming days.

Casadei, described as “very big” and “physically strong” by manager Enzo Maresca, has struggled for regular playing time at Chelsea. He is now likely to return to Italy, with Lazio reportedly making a £10 million bid for the 22-year-old midfielder.

Belahyane has impressed for Hellas Verona this season with consistent performances in midfield. The Morocco international is seen as an ideal replacement for Casadei in Chelsea’s squad.

Di Marzio reports that Chelsea will move quickly to finalize Belahyane’s signing once Casadei’s exit is confirmed. The £12.6 million fee is not expected to be an obstacle for the Premier League club.

This potential deal comes amid a busy January transfer window for Chelsea, with several other players also linked with moves away from Stamford Bridge before the deadline.