Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino could have found his transfer wildcard to sign in the final days of the summer window
Despite spending over £350million, Pochettino making one more addition at Stamford Bridge appears likely. football.london understands Chelsea want someone who can play both on the right wing and as a No.10. Among the options were Rayan Cherki, Bradley Barcola and Brennan Johnson.
Michael Olise and Jeremy Doku were options earlier in the window, however the latter signed for Manchester City with Olise signing a new contract at Crystal Palace which heavily complicated any transfer to Chelsea. Therefore, it currently appears unclear who Pochettino's final summer signing will be.
According to the Mail, Chelsea are weighing up a move for the 23-year-old. Injuries have significantly affected Smith Rowe's last 12 months with surgery needed on a groin injury issue in September before a thigh problem saw him miss more action three months later.
"He knows how much we love him, and we know how much we missed him and how much we need his qualities," the Arsenal boss said back in March. "And now he needs to prove it, he needs to prove how much he wants to win, and how much he's going to contribute to this team to be better and win. And he's going to have to show that to get in the team.
"I think we have to manage his load, but for sure he's in a position where we can throw him in the team at any moment. And then it's about how he's coping with the team in general and whether we have to take him off or to use him in the last few minutes of the game."
Smith Rowe enjoyed a superb spell in 2021 which saw his value rise to €70million (£60m), as per CIES Football Observatory. However, just under two years on, that has dropped to €20million (£17m) which presents a huge chance for both Arsenal and Chelsea.
Chelsea's interest combined with a significant lack of minutes over the last few campaigns could mean now is the best time for Arsenal to cash in. Meanwhile, the Blues may see it as a bargain opportunity to sign a Premier League proven player that fits the positions they want a versatile signing to fill.
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