Mauricio Pochettino is still closing in on becoming the next Chelsea manager, football.london understands, but the process is continuing to leave fans uncertain. Frank Lampard prepares to oversee his seventh game since replacing Bruno Saltor as interim head coach against Bournemouth but it is Pochettino's whereabouts and decision that is gaining more attention.
The Argentine has held positive talks with the Blues in the past two weeks but negotiates his own contract without an agent and also has a quartet of fundamental backroom staff to bring with him. He also likes to work on their appointments first. It is making the thorough and exhaustive process of finding a third manager in 12 months for Todd Boehly-Clearlake exactly that.
There is little reason to rush, either. Chelsea have nothing to play for this season and won't be immediately replacing Lampard with Pochettino even if he was to be announced. The longer the wait goes on, though, the more restless Blues fans are getting.
READ MORE: 'No rush' with Mauricio Pochettino, Noni Madueke demand and Bournemouth vs Chelsea concern
There is a worry that Real Madrid could make a move for the 51-year-old should Chelsea and Pochettino stall in talks, especially with the future of Carlo Ancelotti still far from clear despite his defiance that he will be seeing out the final year of his deal. Also in the mix throughout has been the prospect of a return to Tottenham.
Spurs fans have been clamouring for a comeback ever since he was sacked in 2019 and felt that the dismissal of Antonio Conte opened up the chance of their dreams becoming a reality. Daniel Levy and Joe Lewis are yet to take any steps towards that, though, and have set their sights on Julian Nagelsmann, Vincent Kompany and Xabi Alonso instead.
Although it seems that Pochettino won't be back in the hotseat in north London anytime soon, the desire to see him on the touchline for other clubs may well be the kick that both parties are after for Chelsea to get this over the line. If not then the report from the Independent may well make a difference.
It is said that Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is still keen on Pochettino having tried to lure him to the Spanish capital previously. It is Chelsea that stand in prime position to make this deal happen, though, with Todd Boehly said to be 'blown away' by how perfect Pochettino is for the role.
His previous experience in high-maintenence environments mixed with his proven ability to rebuild, work with young players and within an defined club heirarchy all make him a standout candidate.
Meanwhile, former player Ricky Villa has given his verdict on Pochettino and Tottenham, revealing the impact he could yet have on the manager's future. "It's a difficult moment for the club," he told talkSPORT. "I'm not allowed to talk about what happened because I live in Argentina but the club is very strong and I think it will recover very soon.
"Pochettino. Come back Pochettino, we need Pochettino back into the team," he said passionately. "Yes, yes, yes. Call him, another offer. He has to make the decision. He has a little chance to come to Spurs again.
"It's not my decision. It's the decision of the chairman. I meet Pochettino next week and we see what happens. If he's going to Chelsea or waiting for the club."
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