Chelsea boss Pochettino ‘planning to block Angelo transfer’ in sudden U-turn

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Mauricio Pochettino has reportedly decided not to loan new Chelsea star Angelo out to sister club Strasbourg as previously agreed. The Brazilian forward has impressed on the Blues’ pre-season tour of the US, prompting his manager to have a change of heart as he weighs up his options ahead of next season.

Chelsea’s transfer strategy has been slowly changed under the ownership of Todd Boehly, with the club now focusing on signing the best young players and nurturing their development themselves. The Blues also acquired Ligue 1 outfit Strasbourg in order to aid their plan, viewed as the ideal club to send their youngster to gain first-team experience.

Numerous players have been linked with a move to the club this summer, though Angelo looked a certainty to make the trip to France. Strasbourg’s chief scout Loic Desire even spoke of how his side were set to secure the services of the 18-year-old, explaining: “He won’t be arriving straight away, as Chelsea want to integrate him into the club first.

“He’ll come in August after the tour of the United States. We want to bring more variety to Patrick Vieira.” However, the plug has been pulled on those plans, according to Sky Sport Italy reporter Di Marzio.

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Pochettino is said to have ‘changed his mind’ on Angelo and now feels that the summer signing could feature in his current plans. The former Santos star shone in pre-season and provided a spark of energy in the final third, which could prove a valuable asset in the upcoming campaign.

Angelo predominantly plays on the right wing, and the decision could indicate that Chelsea are not desperate to acquire a new player in that department. The Blues were previously linked with Ajax’s Mohammed Kudus and Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise but now appear somewhat content with their current options on the flank.

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Instead, Chelsea are prioritising bolstering their midfield ranks instead. Brighton’s Moises Caicedo remains the top target at Stamford Bridge and talks are ongoing between the sides, though it remains to be seen whether the Blues are willing to match his £100million price tag.

Pochettino is also keen to prise goalkeeper Robert Sanchez away from the Amex Stadium this summer, but, contrastingly, Brighton are keen to facilitate that move. The Spain international has fallen down the pecking order under Seagulls boss Roberto De Zerbi and refused to warm the bench during the latter stages of last season, with a transfer seen as the ideal outcome for all parties.

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