In our look at the latest Chelsea-related news stories from the media, a former Chelsea midfielder expects big things of Timo Werner at Stamford Bridge and the impact of Christian Pulisic in his first match since New Year’s Day is analysed.
These stories are samples pulled from external media sources. They do not represent the views or position of Chelsea Football Club.
Poyet delighted Werner joining Blues
Former Chelsea midfielder Gustavo Poyet has hailed the signing of Timo Werner, telling TalkSport the Blues have acquired one of the best strikers in Europe.
It was announced last week that Chelsea had reached agreement with RB Leipzig on the transfer of the German striker and Poyet believes the 24-year-old will make an excellent addition to Frank Lamard’s squad.
‘It’s always very difficult to get one of the top strikers in Europe, especially if you’re the club buying, because there’s too many people who are trying to look for the same type of players,’ said the Uruguayan.
‘I’m pleased that he’s coming to Chelsea. I’m pleased that he will give options to Frank Lampard, especially in front of goal which is the most important and normally the most expensive one.
‘He’s very good at running into space and quick. I’m not saying really fast, but he’s quick, pacy and he can go in [behind] one vs one. He’s intelligent. I think he enjoys it more when he plays as the main striker. But also, he’s been playing at lot coming in off the left when you play three up front. I think there are good options for Chelsea next season.
‘This is the dream for the coach. Before you even start training for next season, you’ve got players through the door already. This is acting quickly and not letting anyone get involved and deciding which players are your first choice because that’s something that is very difficult in England.’
Redknapp praises Pulisic after Villa win
Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp was full of praise for Christian Pulisic after the American played a key role in Chelsea’s comeback win at Aston Villa on Sunday, the Daily Mail reports.
Pulisic had not played for the Blues since suffering a tear in his abductor muscle in our New Year’s Day draw at Brighton but the 21-year-old made an impact at Villa Park, equalising just five minutes after he had come on as a substitute.
His performance caught the eye of Redknapp who was analysing the match on Sky Sports.
'That's what you want from your wide men, look at what Liverpool do with their wide players. You want them to chip in 10/15 goals a season – it's vital,' Redknapp said.
'I like the way he heads in at the back post – it's something wide men have to do now. He shows real desire to get in at back post.
'You're not always going to score the perfect goal but he gets something on it and managed to keep it down enough.
'Chelsea were far the better team and it would have been a travesty if they didn't win.'
Chelsea eyeing Jamaican winger?
The Daily Mail reports Chelsea are one of a number of Premier League clubs eyeing a summer move for Bayer Leverkusen winger Leon Bailey.
According to the paper, the Jamaican has been a key player this season for Leverkusen, who are currently fifth in the Bundesliga and have reached the German Cup final, and has drawn interest from the Blues and the two Manchester Clubs.
‘All three clubs will run the rule over Bailey in the German Cup final against Bayern Munich on July 4, a game where an impressive display could quicken a move to England,’ states the report.
‘Bayer value the 22-year-old, who has three years left on his current deal, at around £40million - a significantly cheaper price than the likes for Jadon Sancho and Jack Grealish, who are being linked with England’s top clubs.
‘The 22-year-old is naturally left-footed, but is comfortable with both feet and has pace to burn, which is an obvious attraction.
‘His comfort with either foot means he can play on either flank or in a central attacking role.’