Chelsea close to next transfer which may be completed this week

The Battle of the Bridge Part II, as predicted by Pride of London, was a particularly eventful afternoon, even by Premier League standards. Player clashes, manager bust-ups, indefensible refereeing and Video Assistant Referee mistakes – a contest that had it all! Though the entertainment aspect will do nothing to ease the pain of Chelsea supporters, as Tottenham Hotspur escape Stamford Bridge with an undeserved point. Spurs should have lost all three, in reality, because the Blues were by far the better team. Statistics indicate a mauling: 63.7 per cent possession for CFC, along with more shots, tackles, passes – by far – and generally undefinable yet dominating play.

Naturally the bosses clashing – and seemingly almost coming to blows at one or two stages – took most of the headlines away from a great game for neutrals. Not to mention covering much of the analysis and interview time. However, the gaffers’ media talks following the final whistle were revealing, it must be said. Spurs head coach Antonio Conte actually went so far as to jokingly suggest that “Making you [Thomas Tuchel] trip over would have been well deserved“. Conte posted this to Instagram in reference to Tuchel’s sprint and celebration down the touchline after the second Chels’ goal. The German’s exuberance emerged in retaliation or reaction to the Italian’s earlier goading when THFC equalised.

Chelsea closing in on another transfer target which may be completed this week

Returning to on-pitch matters, the Blues did a lot to be pleased with and inspired by, whilst a few issues reared their heads once again. Kai Havertz continues to thrill and disappointed in equal measures. Don’t get me wrong, I really rate the Germany international and he does so much right, but his finishing is inconsistent to say the least.

There must be work done in that department, and I am still of the opinion that a specialist striker is required in Tuchel’s system. But it has to be the correct footballer for the crucial task. Obviously Havertz will have his place in the squad, or starting team if my view counts, though maybe his role needs altering again.

The midfield was solid throughout, apart from one awfully glaring and costly Jorginho error in his own penalty box. Injury to N’golo Kante is a certain negative. Although, as the transfer window remains open until September, additions can be made and cover acquired where necessary.

Jacob Steinberg claims Chelsea are “winning the race” to sign Inter Milan’s Cesare Casadei. Now, Casadei is one for the future as opposed to a replacement for the aforementioned central duo. Conor Gallagher and Mateo Kovacic are on hand to deputise for the Frenchman, with Gallagher really favoured to be involved.

Nevertheless, other injuries could cause a need for the up-and-comers’ involvement. And PoL shall be keeping a keen eye on League Cup outings incase there is game time for the man from Italy. The 19-year-old is highly rated, and is seen as part of an effort to improve youthful talent on Fulham Road. According to reports I have read, Casadei is authoritative in the middle, and is versatile enough to be deployed more defensively or in an attacking midfield capacity.