Mauricio Pochettino can build the perfect Chelsea starting lineup with just three transfers. Following the arrivals of Nicolas Jackson, Christopher Nkunku and Malo Gusto, the Blues are left with just three jobs.
Firstly, Pochettino must identify an experienced goalkeeper who can dislodge Kepa Arrizbalaga and act as a superior placeholder until Gabriel Slonina is ready to take the reins between the sticks. The 19-year-old shot-stopper completed a £12million move to Stamford Bridge from Chicago Fire last summer before returning to the MLS side on loan for the remainder of the season.
It remains to be seen whether Slonina, who penned a deal which keeps him at Stamford Bridge until 2028, will be inducted into the first team or sent out on loan this term. But, one thing for sure is that the United States international has an abundance of potential waiting to be unlocked.
Secondly, Chelsea are in desperate need of a new defensive midfielder. With Jorginho leaving for Arsenal in January and N'Golo Kante off to Saudi Arabia, a No.6 should be a priority signing.
As for the Blues attack, Pochettino has a wealth of exciting wingers at his disposal. But, the former Tottenham boss could do with a backup option to Christopher Nkunku, who's expected to operate as a No.10 behind either Nicolas Jackson or Armando Broja.
While Chelsea fans have urged the club to take a look at Rayan Cherki and Florian Wirtz, neither have been linked with a move to west London recently – but that doesn't mean they shouldn't dream. So, with that being said, football.london has taken a look at how the Blues could line up under Pochettino after just three huge transfers.
Formation
Pochettino is well known for his forward-thinking approach. Over the years, he's usually preferred a 4-2-3-1 which looks like a 4-3-3 while attacking and a 4-4-2 when defending.
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Goalkeeper
Despite flashes of brilliance every now and then, Kepa has struggled to impress since joining Chelsea for a record-breaking fee a few years ago. With Slonina climbing the ranks, the Blues should look no further than Keylor Navas.
The 36-year-old, who sees his contract at Paris Saint-Germain expire in 2024, impressed while on loan at Nottingham Forest last term. Navas would provide good short-term cover between the sticks until Pochettino believes Slonina is ready.
With not too many world-class options available on the market this summer, Chelsea could get their hands on the Costa Rica international for a fairly shrewd fee. By also dislodging Kepa from the starting lineup, the Blues can proceed with their plan to trim down the wage bill.
Defence
While many would rather Ben Chilwell, or even Lewis Hall, at left-back next season, the Blues could take a leaf out of Mikel Arteta's book and trust Levi Colwill in the 'Ben White role'. At Arsenal, he provides cover for Bukayo Saka, who is freed from the shackles of as much defensive responsibility.
On the right, Reece James could take up the 'Oleksandr Zinchenko role'. It's difficult to overlook Chilwell, but the England international isn't as effective as a full-back as he is a wing-back – though he's still a fantastic option, of course.
Midfield
If Chelsea can partner Enzo Fernandez with Caicedo then the Argentine will finally be able to step into the No.8 role. The south American duo can play a double pivot and sit behind Christopher Nkunku, who will likely support Nicolas Jackson – a lone striker.
As for the wingers, Mykhailo Mudryk is expected to be operated as an outlet on the left. However, the 22-year-old faces tough competition from Raheem Sterling so Pochettino certainly has a difficult decision to make.
On the right, Noni Madueke is a very strong option, but so would Cherki. The £43million-rated France Under-21 international has enjoyed a brilliant couple of years at Lyon in the French top-flight and, while he'd naturally be back up to Nkunku as No.10, he's just as effective cutting side onto his left foot.
Attack
Chelsea have been in desperate need of a dynamic striker for a few years now. The Blues has struggled to replace Didier Drogba and Diego Costa, with only Olivier Giroud coming close to a slice of success.
Next season, Pochettino will have Jackson ad Broja at his disposal. The former is expected to take priority following his £32m move from Villarreal, however the Cobham graduate will be determined to force himself into the side which makes for great competition.
Lineup
Kepa Arrizbalaga; Levi Colwill, Benoit Badiashile, Wesley Fofana, Reece James; Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo; Mykhailo Mudryk, Christopher Nkunku, Rayan Cherki; Nicolas Jackson.
