By SABC Sport
7th June 2023
Chelsea are actively pursuing Celta Vigo's Gabri Veiga and may part ways with Kai Havertz, who wants to leave the club.
Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea's new head coach, is focused on reinforcing the midfield.
After missing out on Manuel Ugarte, Pochettino has turned his attention to Veiga. Barcelona and Liverpool are also interested in the 21-year-old Spaniard. Veiga is highly regarded as one of Europe's top young midfielders and has a ¬40 million release clause.
Chelsea, who are also interested in Moises Caicedo from Brighton, are determined to secure Veiga.
Liverpool may pursue Veiga after finalising the signing of Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton.
Chelsea need to sell players following significant spending in the past year. Potential departures include Mateo Kovacic, Mason Mount, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek. N'Golo Kante, whose contract is expiring, has received lucrative offers from Saudi Arabian clubs.
Havertz has attracted interest from Real Madrid and potentially Bayern Munich. He wants a fresh challenge away from Chelsea. With two years left on his contract, an extension seems unlikely. Chelsea value him at £75 million.
Real Madrid see Havertz as a potential replacement for Benzema and is also pursuing Kane and Bellingham.
Havertz, who joined Chelsea in 2020, arrived with high expectations and made key contributions in the Champions League and Club World Cup finals.
Ultimately, Chelsea's squad will undergo changes as they aim to rebuild under Pochettino and reduce their size after a disappointing season.