Pochettino to trade Edouard Mendy for Inter Milan star

Newly appointed Chelsea manager, Mauricio Pochettino, is reportedly keen on bolstering the team’s goalkeeper position by targeting Inter Milan’s Andre Onana. As part of the deal, Pochettino is willing to offer Edouard Mendy and cash to secure the signing of the talented Cameroonian shot-stopper during the summer transfer window.

According to reports from Foot Mercato, Pochettino is a strong admirer of Onana, whose impressive performances have played a significant role in Inter Milan’s journey to the UEFA Champions League final. The Italian club is set to face Manchester City on June 10, with Onana aiming to showcase his skills on the grandest stage.

Since the departure of Thibaut Courtois in 2018, Chelsea has faced challenges in finding a reliable long-term option in goal. Following Courtois’ exit, the Blues broke the world-record fee for a goalkeeper to bring in Kepa Arrizabalaga as his replacement. However, the Spanish international has struggled with inconsistency and reliability, prompting Chelsea to sign Mendy just two years later.

Initially, Mendy proved to be a transformative addition to the squad, playing a crucial role in Chelsea’s triumphant 2021 UEFA Champions League campaign. His exceptional performances also earned him recognition as the Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper for that season, after winning the Africa Cup of Nations with the Senegal national team.

Nevertheless, Mendy’s form has dipped in recent times, with injuries hampering his playing time.

Reports have emerged suggesting that the 31-year-old goalkeeper has rejected multiple contract extension offers that would have extended his stay at Stamford Bridge beyond 2025. With these developments, it is widely anticipated that Mendy will leave the club during the current transfer window.

In light of the situation, Pochettino has identified Onana as a prime target to reinforce Chelsea’s goalkeeping department. The Argentine manager believes that the addition of the Inter Milan goalkeeper would provide a significant boost to the team’s defensive solidity and enhance their chances of success in domestic and European competitions.

As the summer transfer window progresses, negotiations between Chelsea and Inter Milan are expected to intensify, with discussions revolving around the possibility of a player-plus-cash deal involving Mendy and the promising Onana.

Football fans and pundits eagerly await further updates on this potential transfer, which could see the talented Cameroonian ply his trade in the English Premier League under the guidance of Mauricio Pochettino.