Mauricio Pochettino to save £108m with two huge decisions as Chelsea duo impress in pre-season
Mauricio Pochettino could have seen several transfer decisions made for him in Chelsea's 5-0 pre-season victory over Wrexham. For his first game in charge of the Blues, Pochettino named a youthful starting XI with Angelo Gabriel, Andrey Santos and Malo Gusto among the starters helping the average age of the team sit at just over 19.
Joining Santos in midfield to form a young engine room trio was Cesare Casadei and Carney Chukwuemeka with all three catching Pochettino's eye. «The profile is very good, the two names and Carney also, and of course Casadei and Andrey,» the Argentine said when discussing his chosen midfield.
«They have the profile. Only they need time. They are young. We cannot forget we are in Chelsea, the pressure is always to win. They need to have the place, to have time to evolve but yes the profile is good.»
Despite Pochettino being impressed with the trio, he has recently admitted there is a clear need for further additions in the centre of the pitch. «Yes I think we need [a player] there [in midfield], for sure,» he told ESPN. «But I think it is clear. Everyone knows that we need maybe to add some players there.»
Moises Caicedo is the top target for that position but Brighton are standing firm on their £100million valuation, despite the player's recent exit plea to Seagulls boss Roberto De Zerbi. If the Blues are able to meet a compromise with Brighton for the 21-year-old, given four exits have been sealed in midfield over the last six months, a second addition could be made.
However, Casadei, Santos and Chukwuemeka have all made a case to remain in west London for the season. Casadei in particular could save Pochettino £45million at least if a loan move is not sanctioned with Southampton asking for that
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