Chelsea look set to lose out on long-term transfer target Borna Sosa in the summer transfer window. Erik ten Hag is keen to make the Stuttgart defender his first Manchester United signing, according to German outlet Kicker.
The 24-year-old has featured 27 times in the Bundesliga this season, directly contributing to nine goals from left wing-back. However, his impressive displays haven't been enough to steer Stuttgart to safety; the German side sit third from the bottom and look set to compete in a relegation play-off unless results go their way on the final day.
Nonetheless, the Croatia international has reportedly continued to court the interest of Chelsea and United. Thomas Tuchel's side locked horns with Inter Milan for Sosa at the end of the January transfer window, according to Sky Sports Germany.
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But, a deal failed to materialise for the £25.6 million-rated defender. Sosa is ranked as one of Europe's leading left-backs for his chance creation, progressive passing, ball-carrying and shot-creating actions compared to positional peers, as per Fbref.
Chelsea scouts have watched the Croatian this season to monitor his progress football.london understands. Though, of course, the Blues are renowned for their vast scouting network, so it's only natural that representatives have kept a tab on the Bundesliga — a growing hub for exciting talent.
Sosa has become renowned for his crossing ability which has seen the defender himself likening his style to David Beckham. And Stuttgart's sporting director Sven Mislintat agrees.
In an interview with Bild last season, the transfer chief said: "Borna Sosa's said that David Beckham is his role model, and I think he has the same qualities. He puts in crosses from every angle; sometimes chipped, sometimes drilled, sometimes flat, sometimes in behind, sometimes to the front post, other times to the back post — his left foot is a real weapon."
Sosa, though, is left-footed and is a left-back. As we all know, Beckham is right-footed and was a right-winger.
