Chelsea ‘explore’ move for Newcastle target as Pochettino formulates Mount replacement plan

Chelsea are considering replacing Mason Mount with Lyon attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki this summer, according to reports. 

Mauricio Pochettino is set for a busy transfer window after offloading several players, with the manager tipped to focus on attacking targets.

For instance, Chelsea have already signed Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku. But, their business won’t stop there.

One of the most important areas they will need to focus on, though, is attacking midfield. That is because Mount is destined to join Man Utd this summer.

Indeed, the Red Devils have reportedly agreed a £60m package with Chelsea. So, barring any last-minute twists, he will be playing at Old Trafford next season.

Since breaking into the Chelsea first team in 2020, he has made 195 appearances, scoring 33 goals and making 37 assists in the process.

Clearly, Pochettino will have to think very carefully before bringing in a replacement. Several players have been linked with the club, but Cherki has recently emerged as an option.

Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle also hold an interest in the 23-year-old.

So, Chelsea will have to put their money where their mouth is to get a deal over the line.

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Chelsea ‘explore’ move for Cherki

According to journalist Simon Phillips, Chelsea are ‘exploring a move’ for Cherki this summer.

As mentioned, he is one of several attacking midfield targets on Pochettino’s shortlist. For instance, the manager is also interested in Celta Vigo’s Gabri Veiga and Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz.

Cherki is widely considered to be one of the most exciting young players in Ligue 1. Last season, the Frenchman made 39 appearances. In the process, he scored five goals and made six assists.

He is only expected to get better as he gains experience, too. So, it will be interesting to see if Chelsea make a concrete offer for his services.

Phillips’ report doesn’t make it clear how much Lyon will demand for Cherki this summer.

Transfermarkt value the attacker at approximately £30m. But, given the level of interest in him, his ultimate price tag could end up being higher than that.

What Pochettino needs is someone who can score and create goals. Last season, the Blues scored just 38 goals in the Premier League – by far the least of all the ‘big six’ clubs.

So, Chelsea will be hoping that Nkunku, Jackson, and potentially Cherki will help turn their goal scoring form around next term.

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