Transfer news: Micah Richards backs Juan Cuadrado for Premier League success

Last Updated: 28/01/15 11:15am

Chelsea remain in talks over the signing of Juan Cuadrado

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Chelsea remain in talks over the signing of Juan Cuadrado
Chelsea remain in talks over the signing of Juan Cuadrado

Micah Richards believes Fiorentina’s in-demand winger Juan Cuadrado has all the attributes to be a big hit in the Premier League.

Sky sources understand Chelsea remain in talks over the signing of the Colombia wideman - but are yet to make a formal offer.

Bayern Munich, Manchester United and Barcelona were among other clubs reportedly tracking the 26-year-old but Richards – currently on loan in Florence from Manchester City – reckons that the English top-flight would be the perfect fit for his team-mate.

Richards told Sky Sports News HQ: “After the World Cup, he had lot of teams looking at his situation and I have heard all the top teams in England are looking at him and so they should be.

“I have been training with him every day and he’s got everything; technique, speed, power, pace. All his attributes would be suited to the Premier League so I can see exactly why he is being linked with a move there.

“He’s loved here at Fiorentina and if he was to leave the fans would be gutted but I suppose as a player he’s got to decide what’s best for him. He’s been here for five or six years so if he feels like he needs to make that step then I would be happy to give him advice.”

Richards is the last young English player to come through the ranks at City but with his deal in Manchester expiring in the summer he accepts that his long-term future lies away from the Ethihad.

"I'd love to play for Manchester City again one day, it's a club close to my heart," he said.

"I have been there since I was 14 but to go back there now I would see as a step back. I won Premier League medals, an FA Cup and League Cup in my time there but I am better than just sitting on the bench somewhere." 

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