Chelsea transfer news: The latest media briefing from Stamford Bridge with reaction to stories on Kylian Mbappe and Robert Sanchez
Mauricio Pochettino has been busy making the necessary improvements to his attack at Chelsea this summer, yet one more blockbuster move may be on the cards.
Although it’s the midfield that seems in desperate need of reinforcement, the Blues continue to be linked with a new number nine to add competition for Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson.
Kylian Mbappe’s services are currently available having been put up for sale by Paris Saint-Germain. The likelihood of the France international moving to the Premier League has always seemed low, but that could be about to change
Following reports on Saturday that Liverpool were lining up a loan move for Mbappe, it has now been claimed that Chelsea are hatching their own plan. It’s said that the west Londoners are negotiating a cash-plus player deal to bring the 24-year-old to Stamford Bridge.
According to the Daily Record, PSG have encouraged Chelsea’s efforts to take Mbappe off their hands, with president Nasser Al-Khelaifi holding direct discussions with Todd Boehly. It isn’t yet clear who Chelsea intend to include in the deal, but a move would see Pochettino reunite with Mbappe.
football.london says: Chelsea would elevate themselves to one of the best teams in the Premier League with the signing of Mbappe. A prolific goalscorer has long been lacking in SW6 and the 24-year-old would solve that problem.
Mbappe is likely to be keen to prove himself in the Premier League having won everything possible in France. Working under Pochettino may also be an attractive option for the striker, leaving the club with a decision to make.
The thought of having Mbappe leading their line is obviously something Chelsea would love. However, the finances involved in the deal could prove crucial. The forward is set to demand a big wage, possibly making him the club’s highest-earners.
And with Mbappe’s well-known desire to eventually play for Real Madrid in his career, there will forever be doubts over his future. Signing Mbappe may provide short-term success, but the long-term security isn’t there.
Elsewhere, the Blues have reportedly identified Brighton goalkeeper Robert Sanchez as a potential understudy to Kepa Arrizabalaga. Having fallen out of favour under Roberto De Zerbi at the AMEX, Sanchez has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge for some time.
Sanchez’s contract at Brighton expires next June meaning Chelsea could secure his services this summer. According to Nathan Gissing, Chelsea have ‘internally’ decided to push ahead with a move for Sanchez. However, there is yet to be any contact with the player’s agent.
football.london says: Edouard Mendy’s move to Saudi Arabia leaves Chelsea incredibly short in quality options in goal. Kepa is clearly expected to be Pochettino’s first-choice but a deputy ready to fill in when required is a must.
Sanchez has proved himself in the Premier League and is more than capable of taking up the sweeper role and playing out of the back. All in all, it would be smart business. There do remain some question marks over Kepa after a number of errors throughout his career in England, meaning there is scope for the Spain international to become the number one.
There is plenty of time for Chelsea to get a deal done. Brighton are proving difficult to negotiate a deal with for Moises Caicedo, so fingers crossed that they can pursue Sanchez with little trouble with a repeat of the saga avoided with this move.
Which of the following prospects would you like to see in the first team, or loaned out for experience? Swipe to have your say…
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