Chelsea Transfer News Roundup: Napoli want Christian Pulisic; Blues sent Mauricio Pochettino warning, and more - May 19, 2023

Chelsea are preparing to face Manchester City at the Etihad on Sunday (May 21) in the Premier League. Frank Lampard's side are on a run of just one win in their last 11 games across competitions.

Meanwhile, Napoli are interested in Blues midfielder Christian Pulisic. Elsewhere, the Premier League have been sent a warning regarding Mauricio Pochettino. On that note, here's a look at the key Chelsea transfer stories as on May 19, 2023:

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Napoli want Christian Pulisic

Christian Pulisic has admirers at Napoli.

Napoli are interested in Christian Pulisic, according to Il Roma via Sport Witness.

The American forward has failed to live up to expectations since arriving at Stamford Bridge in 2019. Pulisic has further dropped down the pecking order this season, and his situation isn't about to change anytime soon. The player's contract expires in the summer of 2024, and he's not expected to sign an extension.

Chelsea are likely to let him leave for a suitable price, and the Serie A champions are interested. Napoli are sweating on the future of Hirving Lozano, who's heavily linked with a departure this summer.

The Italian club have identified Pulisic as the perfect replacement for Lozano and could move for him if the Mexican leaves. The Blues want €20 million for Pulisic, which makes him affordable for Napoli.

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Chelsea sent Mauricio Pochettino warning

Mauricio Pochettino is close to taking charge at Stamford Bridge.

TalkSPORT host Simon Jordan reckons Mauricio Pochettino's arrival at Stamford Bridge will not guarantee success for Chelsea.

The Blues are reportedly close to handing the keys to the first team to the former Tottenham Hotspur manager. Co-owner Todd Boehly sacked Thomas Tuchel and Graham Potter this season and will hope that Pochettino can get the club back to their heydays.

However, speaking recently, Jordan pointed out that the Argentinean manager doesn't have a good track record when it comes to winning trophies.

"Mauricio Pochettino’s imminent arrival at Chelsea is an interesting one. Yes, he built a great side at Tottenham, but he didn’t win anything. and although I’m sure he’ll make Chelsea contenders again, I don’t think he’ll land any silverware for them because I don’t think he’s a winner, he just gives you a whiff of winning,” wrote Jordan.

He added:

"It’s one thing winning in France with Paris Saint-Germain — if you don’t win something there, then for God’s sake what are you doing? — but if you want to go to Chelsea, you’d better make damn sure you’re a winner, and I’m not sure he is.”

Pochettino is without a job in management since parting ways with Paris Saint-Germain last summer.

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Blues eyeing Illan Meslier

Illan Meslier has admirers at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea are keeping a close eye on Leeds United custodian Illan Meslier, according to journalist Rudy Galetti.

Kepa Arrizabalaga and Edouard Mendy are staring at uncertain futures ahead of the summer and could be on their way out. The Blues are looking for a new No. 1 ahead of the summer and have identified Andre Onana of Inter Milan as their preferred choice.

However, the Cameroonian is likely to cost a forture, forcing the London giants to turn to Meslier. Speaking to Give Me Sport, Galetti said that Chelsea are also monitoring Brentford's David Raya.

"At the moment, no official meeting between Chelsea and Inter has taken place to talk about Onana, who is also on (Man) United's list. Chelsea remain interested, but considering the high price tag and given the unclear situation of Kepa (Arrizabalaga) and Mendy, they are monitoring other goalkeepers, such as Illan Meslier and David Raya," said Galetti.

With Leeds embroiled in a relegation battle, Meslier could be available for cheap this summer.