Three Reasons Why Chelsea Should Sign Lewandowski over Falcao

Chelsea have been interested in Atletico Madrid striker Radamel Falcao since his FC Porto days. The 27-year-old Colombian has proved that he is one of the best strikers in the world. However, Falcao is going to costing upwards of £45 million.

Chelsea have already burnt their fingers with two marquee signings like Andriy Shevchenko and Fernando Torres.

Falcao is a great striker, but is he the only great striker in the world right now? What about Borussia Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski? He recently ripped apart Real Madrid in the Champions League semifinals, while he already has 10 Champions League goals this season.

Here are three reasons why Lewandowski would be a better signing for Chelsea than Falcao.

1. Lewandowski is a complete player

Radamel Falcao is an extremely lethal striker. His biggest strength lies in his ability to hide away from defenders outside the penalty area, but once the ball is in the box, he is almost unstoppable due to his incredible moment inside the box. His biggest disadvantage, though, comes outside the box. He is not as good with his back to goal – a fact reflected by the statistics.

Falcao’s 2012/13 statistics (all competitions):

Lewandowski ‘s 2012/13 statistics (all competitions):

Chelsea are not used to playing with wide wingers, who cross often, like Manchester United. Instead, our play revolves around the striker creating chances for the team as well. Lewandowski is also a great presser of the ball, and he is extremely quick.

2. Age

Due to the hype, it is easy to forget that Falcao is 27 years old. This would mean almost no resale value provided he signs a five-year contract.

Lewandowski is just 24 years old, and he provides a right measure of youth and experience.

3. Price

This is undoubtedly one of the biggest factors that make Robert Lewandowski a better signing than Radamel Falcao. Falcao still has at least three more years remaining on his Atletico Madrid contract, which puts no pressure on the Spanish club to sell him now. Hence, they are demanding in upwards of £45 million for the player.

Lewandowski’s contract, meanwhile, runs out at the end of next season. Hence, he could also be signed for a bargain, as Dortmund would rather sell him for around £25 million rather than lose him for nothing.

This makes signing Lewandowski a no-brainer.