Chelsea fans may have to wait for the summer to see Liam Rosenior make his first signing as manager. It’s unlikely Chelsea move in January, but that doesn’t stop players from being offered to the Blues.
Liam Rosenior will have noticed that Chelsea are lacking experience in the middle of their defence and a quality goalkeeper. A lack of leadership from set-pieces, too. Rosenior will know these are weaknesses.
But after Chelsea spent the best part of £300m in the summer, the chances of Chelsea pursuing a new signing this month feels unlikely. That is, of course, Chelsea pick up an injury and need a replacement.
What are YOUR thoughts on Liam Rosenior’s first week? 👀
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One player who might have helped Chelsea’s organisation and defensive solidity is Ruben Neves. The 28-year-old Portugal star is expected to leave Al Hilal. Neves has now been offered to Chelsea this month.
Ruben Neves key to Al Hilal win vs Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr
It is believed Neves has turned down a new contract at Al Hilal and intends to leave the Saudi Pro League giants in the summer on a free. TalkSPORT say Al Hilal will sell this month for £15m, if he doesn’t sign on.
Ruben Neves in action for Al Hilal.
Photo by Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images
But he’s not letting it affect his performances on the pitch. On Monday night, Al Hilal played host to Joao Felix and Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr, and Neves was instrumental in helping his side earn a 3-1 victory.
Ronaldo had given Al Nassr the lead but Al Hilal equalised; Neves’ gorgeous cross was turned in by Mohamed Kanno. Then, Neves rounded off the win against 10-man Al Nassr with an excellent penalty.
Chelsea are used to doing business with Jorge Mendes
Like many others, Neves is represented by Portuguese super agent Jorge Mendes. Chelsea have a good relationship with Mendes’ agency Gestifute. Enzo Maresca and Jose Mourinho are looked after by him.
Ruben Neves would have Chelsea a lot more organised defensively – agree? 🤔
Goal and assist against Ronaldo's Al Nassr 🎯
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So, if Chelsea had decided to try and bring Neves back to the Premier League, doing business with Mendes would have been no issue. What is an issue is his enormous wages, too high for English football.
Even if Neves was willing to take a pay cut, he is said to be earning north of £300,000 a week. Chelsea’s current stance is they won’t pursue a deal for him but without doubt, a return to England is on the cards.
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