Thomas Tuchel responds to transfer rumors involving Robert Lewandowski and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Chelsea's Todd Boehly era began with the blockbuster transfer of Raheem Sterling from Manchester City, but Thomas Tuchel may still be looking for reinforcements.
When asked about speculation linking Chelsea with moves for veteran strikers Cristiano Ronaldo and Robert Lewandowski, Thomas Tuchel couldn't help but smile.
After Raheem Sterling's transfer from Manchester City was confirmed on Wednesday night, the Blues' transfer window has officially opened. The England international arrived at Chelsea's pre-season camp in Los Angeles earlier this week, prior to his £50 million transfer being confirmed.
Sterling was the first major signing of the Todd Boehly era, with the American in charge of the club's transfer activity following Roman Abramovich's takeover. And the former City player promises to be just the beginning of Chelsea's efforts to close the gap on Liverpool and the Premier League champions.
Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly could join Chelsea by the end of the weekend, while Nathan Ake could follow Sterling from the Etihad to Stamford Bridge.
The focus will then shift to other positions in Tuchel's squad, with a center forward likely to be added at some point. During this transfer window, Chelsea allowed record signing Romelu Lukaku to return to Inter Milan on loan, leaving the club short of options to play as a traditional forward.
After reports of a meeting between Boehly and super-agent Jorge Mendes emerged at the end of last month, Manchester United superstar Cristiano has been heavily linked with a move to the capital.
Lewandowski seems to be another international striker who appears to be on the move, with the Pole stating his desire to leave Bayern Munich during the current transfer window. Barcelona are the clear favorites to sign Lewandowski, but Chelsea has recently emerged as a possible destination for the 34-year-old.
Tuchel, speaking after Sterling's announcement, refused to comment on any rumours, though he did express his admiration for the prolific duo. Tuchel joked about the links when asked if he would comment on them. Because that is exactly what will occur! We'll stick to it, and I won't say anything about it.
"There own careers communicate for themselves; it is unnecessary for me to comment and spread rumors that benefit no one." We'll make an announcement when something is ready."
According to Mirror Football, Chelsea have ruled out signing Ronaldo, at least behind closed doors, leaving the Portuguese icon with few options to force a United exit.
"We're up against two top teams and two top coaches... Tottenham have been very active and aggressive in the early transfer window, and they now have possibly the strongest squad they have ever had.
"With a new coach, Manchester United is never shy about recruiting, and Arsenal has already made some big signings, so we need to keep the level up to be competitive."
"I wouldn't rule it out [signing a striker], but it's not the priority," he added. The priority is defense - this is no secret - and from there, we need to see what is possible."
blogpay
Total Comments: 0