Chelsea: Mauricio Pochettino wants 18-year-old who Mikel Arteta loves

Chelsea are not shy of spending money. Under their lucrative and flamboyant owner Todd Boehly, the club is the biggest spender in Europe by some distance. From fans’ perspective, they won’t mind at all. As long as the spending is sensible and in line with FFP guidelines, then Boehly’s willingness to invest will make Mauricio Pochettino’s first season much easier.

The Blues drew their first game of the season to Liverpool by a scoreline of 1-1. Although the result at home is disappointing, the competition was strong and there were many signs of improvement under the new manager. Still, he feels there is work to be done.

As a manager who likes to promote youth into the first team, his options aren’t exactly sparse at Stamford Bridge. The likes of Enzo Fernandez and Levi Colwill seem to be benefitting from the management of Mauricio Pochettino.

Chelsea have an interest in former Arsenal transfer target Ivan Fresneda

According to the Daily Mail, Pochettino has also registered an interest in the 18-year-old Real Valladolid defender Ivan Fresneda. The young right-back was a big talking point in the January transfer window, as Mikel Arteta wanted him at Arsenal. However, it now looks likely he will sign for Barcelona.

But this summer has been one for hijacks. Just because a player claims to want a move to a different club, it doesn’t mean Chelsea can’t convince them otherwise. They have performed harder tasks with Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo, let’s not forget.

Fresneda would certainly be a great signing for Chelsea and would add to their youthful defensive setup. Chelsea’s full-backs are expected to push high up the pitch, essentially acting as wingers at times. Given his energy, this is certainly a role Fresneda could adapt to.

Do you think Chelsea will sign Ivan Fresneda?