Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Chelsea transfer news: Mauro Icardi deal 'will happen’ - pundit makes big prediction
CHELSEA will sign Inter Milan striker Mauro Icardi in the summer transfer window.
That is the opinion of ESPN FC pundit and legendary Liverpool defender Steve Nicol.
Icardi was the joint top scorer alongside Ciro Immobile in Serie A this season with 29 goals for Inter Milan.
The 25-year-old Argentina international has a £96million release clause and is reportedly a target of Maurizio Sarri, if he replaces Antonio Conte as manager of Chelsea.
Nicol believes Icardi is just the type of player the Blues need to bounce back after a disappointing campaign.
I think this will happen, I think it’s a matter of money. If the price is right, this is a hit
Chelsea finished fifth in the Premier League under Conte, missing out on Champions League qualification.
“Yes I do (like it),” Nicol said of rumours linking Icardi with Chelsea.
“Icardi, top scorer last year in Serie A, was top scorer a couple of years previous to that. So this is a proven goalscorer.
“Chelsea need somebody else, other than (Eden) Hazard in my opinion, that can change a game.
Mauro Icardi plays MESSY prank on teammate Daniele Padelli
“So I think this will happen, I think it’s a matter of money.
“If the price is right, this is a hit.
“And it would be a great move to get Chelsea back in the top four.”