We have a couple of interesting Chelsea developments and reports to discuss with Blues supporters before we get into the main topic, as usual. First of all, there is quite an indepth update on the proposed Stamford Bridge stadium expansion. Martin Lipton and Joshua Mbu explain that the redevelopment shall be one stand at a time, as opposed to the expected “grand design” which may have taken place under Roman Abramovich. Supposedly Todd Boehly and Co. are keen to get work underway, so well-known architect Janet Marie Smith has been appointed. In addition, the hotel behind the Shed End is to be demolished.
Smith previously worked on fantastically high profile projects in America, such as Atlanta’s Olympic Stadium, Baltimore’s Oriole Park, the Boston Red Sox’s Fenway Park and Dodger Stadium in LA, home to Boehly’s baseball team, the LA Dodgers. In a drive to perform as well commercially as other juggernauts, a rebuild for CFC‘s ground is necessary. The aim is to increase capacity to 60,000 at the Bridge. Moving home would never have been welcomed by the core faithful, but Battersea Power Station and Earls Court Exhibition Centre were examined as potential moves under previous ownership.
Chelsea apparently in transfer talks for thrilling yet inconsistent EPL winger – but should the Blues pursue Newcastle United’s Allan Saint-Maximin?
Let’s now switch to transfer talk. A report suggests that, in spite of acquiring left-winger Raheem Sterling, Thomas Tuchel wants to add more, similar firepower to his reshaping attacking line. And Newcastle’s Allan Saint-Maximin could be another signing this summer.
Though the story is technically speculation at this stage, Pride of London values this believable rumour as it emerged from The Athletic. In fact, it is claimed that the Blues are in ‘transfer talks’ for the particularly exciting Frenchman.
Tottenham Hotspur are the other Premier League club named as fancying a move for Saint-Maximin this offseason. Yet the capture of Everton forward Richarlison may arguably end their interest in the Magpies man.
In my opinion, the apparent £40million price tag should not deter Chels’ from bidding; that prospective fee would certainly be within the assumed budget for reinforcements on Fulham Road. Whilst there is no issue regarding talent, Tuchel will have concerns over the inconsistency of the 25-year-old.
Nevertheless Chelsea were actually said to be put off by the amount quoted when enquiring over ‘ASM’. Clearly the newly rich Tyneside outfit don’t need to sell, but there is a suggestion that compromise can be reached with respect to valuation.
Drifting in and out of fixtures is an unwanted aspect of Saint-Maximin’s game. However, he has the capacity to be the match-winner in any match that he features in. 10 goal involvements in 35 EPL contests last season definitely isn’t a reflection of what can be achieved with the right focus, direction and planning.
Although, unpredictability is partly why the wingman is so deadly: neither he nor defenders quite know what he’ll do on the ball. Adding a further clinical dimension is the key. This deal seems like another 50/50 chance at present – don’t rule out this potential transfer entirely.