Long linked with signing Kieran Gibbs from West Brom, Torino ended up getting another Premier League full-back in Chelsea’s Ola Aina.
Leaving Stamford Bridge on loan knowing full well he wouldn’t be getting first-team football under Maurizio Sarri with the likes of César Azpilicueta and Davide Zappacosta ahead of him, the Nigeria international opted for an adventure in Italy instead.
As things stand, the 21-year-old has started three of a possible four games, most recently coming off the bench in a 1-1 draw against Udinese at the weekend.
Relayed by Calciomercato, the defender explained why he chose Torino over other options, and why Chelsea allowed him to leave on loan.
“I’ve started the season well thanks to my teammates and the manager, who believes a lot in my potential. Chelsea knew that sending me here would represent a great chance for me to improve tactically”.
Used on either side of the former Watford manager’s 3-5-2, the Blues’ loanee loves the role, as it allows him to both attack and defend, which he might not be have been able to do as evenly in Sarri’s four at the back formation.
Either way, the young defender seems happy, and there’s a good chance he could stay in Italy for the foreseeable future, as Torino allegedly have an option to make the move permanent.
