Tedesco on Naldo’s departure and potential signings

“It certainly wasn’t our wish for Naldo to leave. He came to us and asked to move to Monaco, which was a real surprise,” said Tedesco. “However, as Naldo has been such a hardworking and reliable player, not only with his superb performances last season, but also in his 13 appearances in this campaign, we decided to agree to the move.”

Tedesco says the recent talks with the Brazilian were always pleasant. “Everything was addressed very positively and we saw eye to eye. Naldo always identified with everything we did,” said the coach. “Naldo was aware of his situation with us when he extended his contract a few months ago, so it was anything but easy to let him go.”

Transfer quality more important than speed

With Naldo leaving, the Royal Blues want to bring in a centre back before the window closes on 31st January. “We won’t be rushing into anything,” stressed Tedesco. “After all, it’s more important to make a good transfer than a quick one. If it takes another two weeks, then so be it.” The coach didn’t want to name any names when it came to possible candidates, but he did reveal that the transfer search will also include a winger and a forward.

There could also be more movement in the opposite direction. Abdul Rahman Baba, who is on loan from Chelsea until 30th June 2019, has been holding talks regarding his future at the club. “We have been open with him about the fact that his game time will be limited,” said Tedesco. The same applies to Johannes Geis, who will now be training with the U23s. “It will also be difficult for Franco Di Santo to get minutes,” confirmed the coach. As with Baba and Geis, the Argentine, who is currently working individually due to a patellar tendon problem, will not be travelling to Benidorm.