Chelsea open talks over move for highly rated midfielder

Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino will become head coach at rivals Chelsea at the start of July. 

The Argentine was officially announced as the Blues’ new boss on Monday, taking over from caretaker manager Frank Lampard who took charge of his final game on Sunday – a 1-1 draw against Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge.

Pochettino will have plenty to think about in the coming weeks as he contends with the Blues’ inflated squad.

Since taking charge of the club last summer, owner Todd Boehly has spent more than £500 million on 16 new signings.

That suggests that Pochettino will be tasked with trimming his squad, although reports now suggest that the west London outfit are in talks with a transfer target.

As per 90min, Chelsea have opened talks as they look to sign Sporting Lisbon midfielder Manuel Ugarte.

The 22-year-old has been in fine form for the Portuguese side this season, making 47 appearances across all competitions including six in the Champions League.

Ugarte is said to be a target for Chelsea this summer

The Blues are set to be in the market for at least one central midfielder with a number of their current crop facing uncertain futures at Stamford Bridge.

Conor Gallagher, Mason Mount and Ruben Loftus-Cheek have all been linked with a move away from the club, which could prompt Pochettino to look for reinforcements.

N’Golo Kante is also set to be out of contract this summer, and it is claimed that Ugarte has been identified as one of a number of targets being considered by the London side.

Despite Chelsea’s interest, Ugarte is also said to have attracted interest from French giants Paris Saint-Germain, who are at a more advanced stage in their pursuit of the player.

PSG are believed to have already agreed personal terms with Ugarte, although the Ligue 1 champions are hoping to avoid paying the player’s £52 million release clause in full.