Bundesliga restart has a negative impact on Chelsea

The eyes of the world are on the Bundesliga as it becomes Europe’s first major top flight league to restart. However, the increased viewership could have an undesired effect on Chelsea.

Chelsea has been linked with both Dortmund’s Jadon Sancho and Leverkusen’s Kai Havertz during the break. With everyone turning to the Bundesliga for their soccer fix over the next few days, the Blues come out losers. Chelsea may be priced out of the race for one of these players—if not both.

Unfortunately, fans are not the only ones paying attention to the Bundesliga this weekend. Scouts, team executives and managers will be as well. While the Blues are not the only ones aware of the talent either youngster possesses, more teams may be encouraged by the on-field product and want to join the race.

Sancho’s skills demand attention, despite playing just about 10 minutes in Dortmund’s game against Shalke. His pace, skills and eye for goal have made him one of the most sought-after young players in the world and Dortmund seems ready to cash in. Havertz is more of an unknown to the general footballing population. He’s a lengthy—yet nimble—midfielder with a silky smooth touch. He’s got a lethal left foot and can hold possession while weaving through multiple defenders as if he were the size of Lionel Messi.

Both players are worth a lot of money in the open market and the Blues would improve acquiring either one. At the moment, it seems as if Chelsea’s only competition for Sancho is Man United. On the other hand, Havertz is being linked to clubs like Liverpool and Bayern Munich, in addition to the Blues. That may change after this weekend.

Ever since Marina Granovskaia has taken over the transfers from departed Technical Director Michael Emenalo, the Blues have been all about smart business. If the bidding war for these talented youngsters gets too pricey, don’t be surprised if Chelsea taps out. Unless Frank Lampard insists upon bringing in either player, it’s unlikely Chelsea would get into a high priced bidding war with other European elite. Instead, the club will look elsewhere for lesser known options and splurge elsewhere.

While it’s certainly nice to have live European football back, Chelsea is likely disappointed. Sancho coming on as a late substitute is good for the Blues, so is Havertz playing on a weekday. However, will those factors be enough to stop others from focusing on the talents?