Mauricio Pochettino is demonstrating a prudent approach as the new manager for Chelsea, showing a preference for internal solutions rather than pursuing extravagant transfers.
Although Pochettino’s official takeover is scheduled for July 1, a clause in his Paris Saint-Germain contract prevents him from assuming a new role until after June 30.
Despite not being officially in charge yet, Pochettino is already providing input from the sidelines.
Chelsea is facing a time crunch to trim their squad and generate funds for potential new signings before the start of July.
Pochettino’s involvement highlights his proactive stance in shaping the club’s future.
The Argentine has identified some priority positions to strengthen – a new goalkeeper, defensive midfielder, and a new striker top the list of targets.
Pochettino to stick with Kepa
Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana is the preferred target for the number 1 role as Senegalese goalie Edouard Mendy is set to leave the club this summer.
Mirror UK reports that the role is no longer high up the priority list as the manager advised the club not to spend heavily to recruit for the position.
Sky Sports adds that the former Tottenham boss has decided that Spanish goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga will keep his place as number 1 but is not ruling out a new goalkeeper joining the club.
Kepa joined for a world record fee for his position in 2018. He has had an inconsistent time at Stamford Bridge, with some high moments that defined success for the club.
Lukaku’s reunion makes sense
The number 9 position is one of the club’s high priorities. Sports Brief analysed why Lukaku’s return makes sense for both parties.
The Blues paid £97.5m to Inter Milan for former striker Romelu Lukaku in 2021, but a fallout with the club made him return to Italy on loan.
The Italians are financially incapacitated and can not meet Chelsea’s asking price; he could save the London club some money by returning as the leading striker next season.