Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino could have found his transfer wildcard to sign in the final days of the summer window.
Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino is facing a major transfer decision with the summer window deadline of September 1 fast approaching. The Blues have welcomed 16 new arrivals with Moises Caicedo and Christopher Nkunku two of the club’s marquee senior signings.
Despite spending over £350million, Pochettino making one more addition at Stamford Bridge appears likely. football.london understands Chelsea want someone who can play both on the right wing and as a No.10. Among the options were Rayan Cherki, Bradley Barcola and Brennan Johnson.
However, any interest in the trio appears to have dissipated in recent days. Regarding Johnson, football.london understands the Blues have cooled their interest. While any potential move for Barcola looks to have taken a twist following Andrey Santos’ loan switch to Nottingham Forest as Lyon wanted the Brazilian ace as part of the deal, as per transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.
Barcelona duo Raphinha and Ferran Torres are said to be on Chelsea’s radar, although a new shocking name emerging could be seen as Chelsea’s transfer wildcard. Following Kai Havertz’s switch from Chelsea to Arsenal, the Blues could enter negotiations again with their London rivals for the transfer of Emile Smith Rowe.
According to the Mail, Chelsea are weighing up a move for the 23-year-old. Injuries have significantly affected Smith Rowe’s last 12 months with surgery needed on a groin injury issue in September before a thigh problem saw him miss more action three months later.
However, Chelsea could give Smith Rowe a new chance with his place in the squad unclear as Arteta also has Reiss Nelson and Leandro Trossard competing for a starting spot, but the Arsenal boss still looks to have plans for the England international.
“He knows how much we love him, and we know how much we missed him and how much we need his qualities,” the Arsenal boss said back in March. “And now he needs to prove it, he needs to prove how much he wants to win, and how much he’s going to contribute to this team to be better and win. And he’s going to have to show that to get in the team.
“I think we have to manage his load, but for sure he’s in a position where we can throw him in the team at any moment. And then it’s about how he’s coping with the team in general and whether we have to take him off or to use him in the last few minutes of the game.”
Smith Rowe enjoyed a superb spell in 2021 which saw his value rise to €70million (£60m), as per CIES Football Observatory. However, just under two years on, that has dropped to €20million (£17m) which presents a huge chance for both Arsenal and Chelsea.
Chelsea’s interest combined with a significant lack of minutes over the last few campaigns could mean now is the best time for Arsenal to cash in. Meanwhile, the Blues may see it as a bargain opportunity to sign a Premier League proven player that fits the positions they want a versatile signing to fill.
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