The anticipated appointment of Mauricio Pochettino as head coach of Chelsea could have major knock-on effects for multiple sets of transfer negotiations with Inter during the summer transfer window.
This is highlighted in today’s print edition of Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport, via FCInterNews, who report that the Blues’ pursuit of goalkeeper Andre Onana and wingback Denzel Dumfries as well as their stance on striker Romelu Lukaku could all change based on the 51-year-old’s plans.
As Tuttosport notes, Inter have shown a real interest in hiring Pochettino to potentially replace Simone Inzaghi.
The Argentine has a good relationship with Nerazzurri Vice-President Javier Zanetti, whilst Sporting Director Piero Ausilio has long felt that the former Tottenham Hotspur and Paris Saint-Germain coach has a style of football that would be well-suited to Serie A and to the club’s objectives.
However, it now looks all but certain that Pochettino is set to join Chelsea to replace caretaker Frank Lampard, sooner or later.
Accordingly, all of the Blues’ future plans are now turning around how their incoming coach wants the team to be built.
This could well mean that, should Inter not want to take back Romelu Lukaku on loan next season, Pochettino could in fact be very receptive to having the Belgian at his disposal.
Then, there is wingback Denzel Dumfries, who has been a target for Chelsea in a couple of transfer windows but who appears to have fallen off of their radar a bit.
Whilst the Blues’ interest in the Dutchman has cooled quite a bit in recent weeks, it has been reported that Pochettino would be interested in reigniting their chase.
Lastly, there is goalkeeper Andre Onana.
Chelsea appear to be stepping up in their efforts to sign the Cameroonian, who looks to be their top target to have a fresh start in the goalkeeping position when they head into next season under Pochettino.
Meanwhile, Tuttosport notes, given that the Blues’ squad has become some bloated and they will likely be looking to offload some players in the summer, there is every chance that amongst all these negotiations there could be opportunities for Inter to sign players not in the Argentine’s plans.
