Chelsea set to make grave Dominic Solanke error with Liverpool circling
Dominic Solanke is reportedly set to snub Celtic in favour of a move to Liverpool. Should the deal materialise, it would represent a serious error from Chelsea management.
Chelsea’s extensive loan system is often the subject of debate. While the Blues usually monetise it successfully, while keeping a few players for their first team, they are set to make a grave error. Dominic Solanke is reportedly close to joining Liverpool as the Blues fail to negotiate a new deal with him.
According to The Sun, the youngster will choose the Reds over Celtic, who are also interested.
"The 19-year-old striker has told pals he is Anfield-bound when his Stamford Bridge deal expires at the end of the season. England Under-21 international star Solanke will reject interest from Celtic to become part of Jurgen Klopp’s plans."
Solanke has for long been regarded as one of the most talented players on Chelsea’s books. The Englishman has caught the eye of clubs across the country, while Blues management see big things in his future.
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However, the lack of first team opportunities at Stamford Bridge have played a part in a contract impasse. The Blues are refusing to meet Solanke’s wage demands and with his deal expiring this summer, time is running out.
The 19-year-old appears to be asking for high wages in order to guarantee him a role in the first team. Having been in Chelsea’s system since 2004, Solanke has made just one senior appearance.
Last season saw him loaned out to Vitesse, where he impressed in his 26 games. However, he has not been loaned out this term. Given that he is nowhere near the first team, Solanke’s talent is currently being wasted away on the sidelines.
Solanke may be in Antonio Conte’s plans for next season, but the club have thus far failed to convince him of that. A switch to Liverpool will likely see him settle for a wage below his initial demands, but the prospect of first-team football is very real under Jurgen Klopp.
While Chelsea have wasted several precocious talents, Solanke’s exit will come back to haunt them. The striker is still in his development stage and with the right coaching at Anfield, he can become the world-class talent he promises to be.
Furthermore, he will be doing so at a club competing with Chelsea. Liverpool are genuine title challengers and are set to only improve under Klopp. Adding the likes of Solanke will both bolster their squad and make Chelsea’s life much more difficult.
Hence, the Blues must do all in their power to retain the Englishman. Moreover, they should give him the senior football he both needs and deserves.