Pochettino Set to Engage Chelsea Board Regarding Frustrations and Potential Dusan Vlahovic Swap
Mauricio Pochettino’s issues are escalating ahead of the new Premier League season, and he is believed to be seeking answers before Chelsea’s season opener against Liverpool.
As a result of Mauricio Pochettino’s transfer concerns, Chelsea’s pursuit of new players is fraught with ambiguity.
Pochettino, who took over at Stamford Bridge in the summer, has yet to comment on a possible trade involving Romelu Lukaku and Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus.
While the Argentine manager is eager to bolster his attacking options, he is uncertain as to whether Vlahovic is a good match for the club.
Moreover, other issues, such as the midfield predicament and a lack of depth, are also major concerns.
Since his appointment, Pochettino has initiated a significant squad overhaul, with the goals of reducing the team’s size and boosting morale.
Several players who expressed a desire to leave were permitted exits, while fringe players were sold to generate transfer funds.
Despite these efforts, Chelsea have only been able to recruit two established players: Nicolas Jackson and Axel Disasi.
Christopher Nkunku’s transfer had already been agreed upon prior to Pochettino’s arrival. Other newcomers are long-term prospects.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano (via Express), the upcoming negotiations for the Vlahovic deal will provide Pochettino with an occasion to express his displeasure with the club’s incomplete squad heading into the 2023/24 season.
In the coming days, discussions are anticipated, but the likelihood of a final agreement is uncertain.
The review process between Chelsea’s decision-makers and Pochettino – in which the manager is provided a forum to express his opinions – also provides opportunities to address other pressing issues, such as the midfield situation.
This summer, Pochettino intended to construct his central midfield around Enzo Fernandez.
Europe-wide manhunt for Dusan Vlahovic
Concerns exist, however, that Conor Gallagher, who is presently available for purchase, may be his midfield partner for the upcoming season.
Moises Caicedo of Brighton is the manager’s top target in this sector, but the club has had multiple bids rejected.
Chelsea has yet to submit an offer for the Ecuadorian international that comes within £20 million of Brighton’s £100 million asking price.
Pochettino is extremely concerned about the paucity of midfield reinforcements, and he also views the signing of another striker as a top priority.
The possible advent of Vlahovic may resolve the problem. As the 2023/24 season approaches, however, the new Chelsea manager believes the lack of quality reserve in his squad should have been addressed sooner.
Pochettino Set to Engage Chelsea Board Regarding Frustrations and Potential Dusan Vlahovic Swap
