Fabrizio Romano on Chelsea’s Gnabry interest and Ronaldo decision

At Pride of London, we absolutely hate to say we told you so. Well, that’s not strictly true – personally I love an opportunity to do so. But high profile and potential starting XI-boosting captures such as Raheem Sterling and Kalidou Koulibaly have given us license to gloat. For well over a month, PoL instructed fans to keep the faith with the new ownership collective fronted by billionaire Todd Boehly. We took that stance and approach after learning of the American’s determination, dedicate and due diligence with the LA Dodgers. Coupled with an obvious passion for sport and business acumen.

Even when Boehly had to step up to the plate – please excuse the awfully intentional baseball pun – on account of a recruitment specialist vacancy, I still did not envision a disaster. The eventual outcome to the saga over Raphinha and Dembele would definitely cause panic for other actually experienced people in the field. But the disappointments were no way near enough to deter the 48-year-old from completing his Chels’ mission: securing top quality, approved signings. Boehly was never going to heavily invest in an iconic sporting club like CFC and subsequently fail to do everything in his power to see the project succeed and sustain itself!

Fabrizio Romano on Chelsea’s Serge Gnabry interest and Cristiano Ronaldo decision

Chelsea’s interest in Bayern Munich man Serge Gnabry was detailed of late, along with the player’s preference. Meanwhile a decision has been made following the Blues’ consideration of Manchester United legend Cristiano Ronaldo.

Starting with Gnabry, we are lucky enough to have input from man of the moment, Fabrizio Romano. First of all and sadly for Blues supporters, the Italian confirmed that the Germany international priorities a new contract from Bayern. Additionally, there is a proposal on offer for the winger to remain with the outfit from Bavaria.

Furthermore, Romano suggests the Stuttgart-born player is ‘attracted by the last contract bid’ and that progress is being made in talks. It appears Chelsea’s heightened interest is likely futile on this occasion.

The situation feels clear to me: Hakim Ziyech is out of favour with Thomas Tuchel, therefore a more versatile right-winger is required at Stamford Bridge. One of Gnabry’s great attributes is that he can fill in as a support striker. Not to mention the ability to be deployed on the opposing flank. I expect other similar athletes to be targeted before 2022/23 begins, especially now that the defence should be sufficiently reinforced.

With respect to the household name that is Ronaldo – the Portuguese as opposed to retired Brazilian, in this case – he won’t be joining Chelsea this summer. Again via Romano’s tweeting, we learn that Tuchel has decided against acquiring United’s high profile attraction.

Apparently the German boss has the deciding vote on any prospective recruits, such as with Ronaldo. Though, agent Jorge Mendes did speak to Boehly about the chances of a switch to West London. However, the Blues remain ‘focused on different deals’; Tuchel was reportedly never keen on signing the famous forward.

Ronaldo could have been a success with CFC, even at his age. There is no doubt about it. Although, what he brings to a team as a veteran wouldn’t necessarily involve the unity that is presently needed at the Bridge. Bringing in a separate centreforward is not out of the question.