Simon Phillips reveals Chelsea are unlikely to sign Newcastle United defender Sven Botman.
Journalist Simon Phillips confirms that Chelsea are hesitant about their pursuit of Newcastle United defender Sven Botman next season, as the Blues aim to bolster their defensive line in the upcoming transfer window.
Chelsea’s defence has appeared porous this season, conceding a significant number of goals. The club currently ranks ninth in the Premier League for goals allowed this campaign.
With Thiago Silva likely to depart this summer upon the expiration of his contract, Chelsea will seek a suitable replacement. The West Londoners require a dependable centre-back capable of filling the void left by the Brazilian. Consequently, it would be prudent for the club to prioritize the acquisition of an experienced defender rather than pursuing another young centre-back.
The likes of Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi have fared poorly, especially Badiashile. The game against Sheffield United was another indication of how the Frenchman has been subpar at the back after he failed to clear the ball, which led to a Sheffield equaliser.
This has forced them to make defensive reinforcement, but the Blues’ current pursuit of Botman could come to an end after reporter Simon Phillips confirmed the club is unlikely to sign him. Speaking to Substack (subscription required), he said:
“Sources are telling me that any move to try and sign him this summer is now highly unlikely, and Toon is obviously not keen to let him go at all. It was always a super unrealistic target, but another one that was discussed internally.”
Despite his injury at the moment, Botman has been an essential defender for Newcastle United. Is he the perfect centre-back that Chelsea requires? Yes, Mauricio Pochettino had already asked the club to buy a player with Premier League experience.
Last season, we struggled to score goals, but this campaign, we are conceding goals too easily, which raises doubts about whether Pochettino has failed to build a solid defence or if our centre-backs have inherent shortcomings. If the backline is properly organized, matches like the one against Sheffield wouldn’t end in a draw because we possess enough quality to secure victory and score goals.
Pochettino has the ability to make tactical adjustments, such as shifting personnel and structure, defending higher or deeper, or deploying a centre-back in the defensive midfield position, among other strategies, in an effort to stabilize the team. Bringing in a player like Botman could be the perfect solution to shore up the defence and provide his expertise in this regard.
Meanwhile, the Magpies are facing financial struggles and may have to sell some of their star players to generate profit. This situation presents an opportunity for the Blues to capitalize and potentially bring in Botman next season.
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