Chelsea identify 'next Neymar' as Havertz replacement amid Pochettino plan
Chelsea appears to be actively searching for a versatile forward in the summer transfer market, with reports suggesting that Kai Havertz is set to join Arsenal. The 24-year-old attacker has been strongly linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium, as Mikel Arteta aims to further strengthen his frontline for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, it seems that Mauricio Pochettino, the Paris Saint-Germain manager, has already identified a potential replacement for Havertz.
According to respected journalist Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea has shown interest in Mohammed Kudus from Ajax. However, the London club is expected to face stiff competition for his signature. The report indicates that Roberto De Zerbi, Brighton's manager, is also keen on securing Kudus, and the young forward is considered one of the Seagulls' top targets for the summer transfer window.
Kudus, who is under contract with Ajax until 2025, made 30 appearances for the Dutch club in the Eredivisie last season, contributing directly to 14 goals. His ability to play in multiple positions is a valuable asset, as he has experience operating as a center-forward, right-winger, attacking midfielder, and central midfielder. The 22-year-old possesses exceptional dribbling skills, which have drawn comparisons to Neymar.
In an interview with The Guardian prior to the World Cup, Kudus supposedly compared himself to the Paris Saint-Germain star, stating that Neymar was not better than him, but merely a higher-profile player. However, Kudus later took to Twitter to clarify that his comments were taken out of context and denied making such a comparison. He expressed his admiration for Neymar and other football legends and mentioned his desire to inspire the next generation.
Despite the controversy surrounding his remarks, Kudus's agent, Jennifer Mendelewitsch, has confirmed that her client is being lined up for a significant move this summer. Mendelewitsch stated in an interview with Dutch publication De Telegraaf that now is the right time for Kudus to leave Ajax. She also revealed that there is substantial interest in the player after his performances in the World Cup and the past season.
In summary, Chelsea is actively pursuing a versatile forward in the transfer market, as they anticipate the departure of Kai Havertz to Arsenal. Mohammed Kudus from Ajax has emerged as a potential target, but other clubs, including Brighton, are also interested. Kudus's ability to play in various positions, coupled with his impressive dribbling skills, has attracted attention. While he previously made a comment comparing himself to Neymar, the Ghanaian player later clarified that his words were misrepresented. His agent believes that the time is right for Kudus to make a move to a new club, as interest in his services has increased following his performances in the World Cup and the past season.
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