Maurizio Sarri expressed his belief that Chelsea was short on quality in central midfield during his first Blues press conference.
He brought in Jorginho from under the noses of Sunday’s Community Shield opponents Manchester City, but reports suggest that Sarri wants to beat Tottenham to further reinforce his options in the engine room.
22-year-old Aston Villa midfielder Jack Grealish is apparently the subject of £20m from Stamford Bridge. But Sarri simply does not need him.
Loftus-Cheek means Chelsea don’t need Grealish
It may be tempting to look at Grealish’s rapid improvement; partially brought about by the striking impact Blues legend John Terry’s professionalism had on the playmaker and think that the 4-3-3 Sarri is likely to bring to the Bridge will suit him.
Grealish has come along leaps and bounds and there aren’t many English players who can do what he does.
Fortunately for Sarri, he already has one of them at Chelsea – Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
The powerful midfielder has had to be incredibly patient at Chelsea.
But this summer’s World Cup showed exactly what he can do; it is ground that has been trodden before but he really does deserve an opportunity.
Sarri’s 4-3-3 would be perfect for him, but he must also battle past Cesc Fabregas and Ross Barkley first, so adding another big-money signing like Grealish to the mix would surely see him consider his options.
The Times report that Loftus-Cheek is already considering a loan move if he does not get enough game time early this season and Grealish’s arrival would surely convince him to go through with departing the club once more.
That cannot be allowed to happen.
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