Mauricio Pochettino wants to sign Barcelona superstar if he is appointed as Chelsea manager: Reports

Mauricio Pochettino is keeping tabs on Gavi's situation at Barcelona ahead of potentially taking the reins at Chelsea, according to Catalonian daily SPORT.

Chelsea removed Graham Potter from his role as their manager last month after the team managed to win only 12 of their games under the Englishman. They brought in Frank Lampard on an interim basis and began the hunt for a new long-term manager.

According to The Athletic, the Premier League giants' manager hunt is expected to end this week. Pochettino is claimed to be the frontrunner to take charge as the Blues' new manager.

The Argentinian tactician has already started planning for his first season as Chelsea's boss. He has reportedly identified the midfield as an area that needs strengthening this summer.

Pochettino is said to be considering a move for Brighton & Hove Albion's Alexis Mac Allister to bolster the Blues' options in the area. However, the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner is also wanted by other clubs, particularly Liverpool.

The former Paris Saint-German boss is also a huge admirer of Barcelona prodigy Gavi. According to the aforementioned source, Pochettino is confident that the midfielder will settle in well in the Premier League.

Hence, Pochettino wants to sign the Spain international if he becomes the Blues' manager, as per the report. The tactician is closely monitoring the player's situation at the Camp Nou.

Gavi has been integral to Barcelona's title push this season, making 32 appearances in La Liga. However, there are concerns about his future with the Blaugrana.

The Mercantile Court of Barcelona overturned Gavi's first-team contract registration earlier this season. The teenager returned to his youth contract, which could see him become a free agent this summer. The La Liga giants have to register his extension by July 1 to avoid such a situation.

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Gavi keen to stay at Barcelona amid Chelsea interest

Barcelona face the risk of losing Gavi on a free transfer due to their financial constraints. Chelsea are seemingly looking to take advantage of the situation this summer.

However, to the Catalans' advantage, Gavi is determined to stay at the Camp Nou. The Spaniard has reportedly informed the Blaugrana that he has no intention to leave the club despite his current situation.

Hence, the Blues could be forced to turn to the other targets to improve their midfield. Meanwhile, it remains to be seen if Mauricio Pochettino can convince Gavi to change his mind and move to London.