Rabiot wants Premier League transfer: Why Chelsea are perfect

Suraj Radia

• 8 Dec 2022 15:00 GMT
• 2 min read

Adrien Rabiot has revealed he would be keen on a move to the Premier League, amid speculation that he could leave Juventus following their recent turmoil.

The Italian side have been investigated for financial irregularities and there are even suggestions that they could be relegated from Serie A, prompting doubts over the futures of their key players.

Rabiot rejected an offer from Manchester United last summer but the 27-year-old, who was on trial at rivals Man City as a teenager, admitted he would be interested in a move to England when his contract expires in June.

REGRETS: Why Man Utd are kicking themselves for missing out on Rabiot

“I had a brief spell at Manchester City and it was very positive,” Rabiot said. “I like the atmosphere that surrounds football, as it’s different to France or Italy. I always said I would like to play in the Premier League.”

“I don’t know [when]. I don’t have a preferred team in England, there isn’t one that necessarily stands out to me, it’s the general league that attracts me. It suits my qualities more.”

Why Man Utd’s loss could be Chelsea’s gain

While United are still believed to retain an interest in Rabiot, they signed Casemiro after being rejected by the Frenchman and the club are also hoping to make another move for Frenkie de Jong next year.

SNUBBED: Rabiot says he was 'lucky' to miss out on Man Utd transfer

United’s hesitancy could allow another club to move for Rabiot and, having previously been linked with him, Chelsea may represent the best option for the playmaker.

The Blues are looking to restructure their midfield, with Jorginho out of contract in the summer, along with N’Golo Kante, and Rabiot could represent a natural, cost-effective for the Italian.

Although there have been concerns over Rabiot’s off-the-pitch attitude and physical suitability, the player insists he has progressed in recent times to become more well-rounded.

“I am going through a good period of my career,” Rabiot said. “I too have grown and matured, so has my football. It is fundamental for my style that I am in good shape physically and that is something I worked on a lot since coming to Juve.

“There was a period when I was criticised a lot, but that didn’t knock me down. Similarly, I don’t intend to get ahead of myself now that I am receiving praise.

“I am more concentrated throughout an entire match. I also try to believe in myself more, work harder in training, it all makes me a more complete player than I was a few years ago.”