Chelsea submit €25m ‘verbal offer’ for Arsenal target as Pochettino looks to fend off competition

Ben Stewart
Chelsea linked Montpellier centre-forward Elye Wahi
Elye Wahi alongside the Chelsea badge

Chelsea have submitted a verbal offer for Elye Wahi as Mauricio Pochettino looks to add to his forward options ahead of the new season.

The Montpellier forward is coming off the back of a terrific season in Ligue 1, having scored 19 goals and produced five assists.

Along with Chelsea, Arsenal are also said to hold an interest in the 20-year-old, although they are looking to offload players before making their next purchase.

According to Mohamed Toubache-Ter, Chelsea have made a verbal offer of €25m for the 20-year-old forward.

The Montpellier frontman is under contract until 2025 and it remains to be seen if an offer of €25m will be enough to secure his services.

Earlier in the week, Fabrizio Romano clarified Chelsea’s interest in the forward and explained the next steps the club will take to seal a deal.

“Understand Chelsea are now advancing in talks to sign Elye Wahi — agreement getting closer, new negotiations round scheduled with Montpellier,” Romano reported.

“Chelsea plan includes loan move for Wahi this season then Chelsea future. Chelsea want to accelerate next week as there’s competition.”

Wahi would be a useful option for Pochettino as the 20-year-old can play anywhere across the forward line. He predominantly played as a number nine last season, but can also act as a wide player.

Along with adding another forward, Pochettino is also keen to sign a new holding midfielder. Moises Caicedo is a top target, but Chelsea are yet to reach an agreement with Brighton.

In a recent press conference, Pochettino did hint towards the fact that Chelsea are looking to sign players in multiple positions.

“At the moment, we are working to reinforce that area, and other areas also,” the Chelsea boss told reporters.

“I think the players that are here on the tour are in our plans, Chelsea’s plans. We are working very hard to try to add more players in different areas and hope that is possible soon.”

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