"You have to sign players for today, not some time in the future" - Graeme Souness rips into Chelsea's transfer strategy under Todd Boehly
Graeme Sourness has lambasted Chelsea's recruitment policy, as despite spending over a billion pounds in the transfer market, the Blues are yet to find the right balance.
Youth first has been the Stamford Bridge club's approach since Todd Boehly and co. took over the ownership. They have spent a fortune on young players like Mykhaylo Mudryk, Wesley Fofana, Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo.
While all those names were among the most sought-after young players in world football, Sourness reckons building a team for the present is just as important. He particularly pointed out the Blues' lack of firepower in front of goal.
Chelsea signed Nicolas Jackson for a reported €35 million last summer. The 22-year-old, though, has proven to be too green for the Premier League. He has scored eight goals and provided two assists in 23 appearances across competitions this term.
Sourness further pointed out that manager Mauricio Pochettino is holding the baton of a club that's run by non-footballing people behind the scenes. He added that Pochettino's job could be on the line if they end the season poorly.
Sourness largely blamed the Stamford Bridge club's transfer strategy for the mess, writing in his Daily Mail blog:
"Timo Werner and Romelu Lukaku were clearly not the answer. But only one Chelsea player scored more than Lukaku, two seasons ago.
"I know they’ve spent on potential in Nicolas Jackson but if you lay out a billion, as Chelsea have, you have to sign players for today, not some time in the future."
From being one of the top European clubs, the Blues have become a mid-table Premier League side. Pochettino was brought in at the start of the season to turn the tide. Not much, though, has changed, as Chelsea are tenth in the Premier League, 17 points behind leaders Liverpool (45) after 20 games.
Graeme Sourness points out Chelsea's lack of leadership
Apart from Thiago Silva, there aren't many experienced players in the Blues' team. Graeme Sourness points out that the Blues lack an exemplary figure inside the dressing room.
Reece James is the captain but has stayed sidelined more often than not due to injuries. Conor Gallagher has led the team in James and Ben Chilwell's injury absence.
Sourness is impressed with Gallagher's performances and also with his tremendous attitude. However, he doubts whether the player is a figure to look up to inside the dressing room.