Chelsea monitoring the 'New Marco Verratti' from Italy's second division -- report

Last time most of us heard about a talented player coming out of the Italian Serie B to a big club, it was Marco Verratti moving to PSG from Pescara.  Perhaps hoping that lightning will strike the same place twice, Chelsea have been scouting young Cesena player and Italy U20 international Stefano Sensi according to Italian outlet Tuttosport.

Following two strong seasons on loan at third division club San Marino, the 20-year-old midfielder returned to his parent club to aid in their run to achieve promotion from the second division. So far, he's helped his team with two goals (both from the penalty spot) in twelve league appearances, with Cesena standing at 4th place which would give them a spot in Serie B's promotion play-offs. Chelsea aren't alone in their chase for Sensi though as Italian top flight clubs such as Juventus, Napoli and Roma are also following the player.

Coming from San Marino, Sensi played mostly as an attacking midfielder but Cesena manager Massimo Drago decided to use him in the midfield instead. Being a rather short player (1.68m, or 5'6''), Sensi compensates for his lack of height with his low centre of gravity which coupled with his speed and his positional awareness, make him a great asset in breaking down the opposing midfield. His technical ability as well his drive on the pitch were lauded by Inter Milan coach Roberto Mancini.

Still, it should be reinforced that he's playing in Italy's second tier against players much worse compared to the ones he'd face in the Premier League. While he arguably has the tools to succeed at the next level, the "new Verratti" isn't at the same level of the finished product from PSG yet.