Paul Merson does not understand Chelsea’s willingness to sell star players Mason Mount and Kai Havertz to “direct rivals” Manchester United and Arsenal, as they’ll “definitely improve” them.
The Blues are in a position in which they probably had to get rid of some saleable assets this summer in order to comply with Financial FairPlay regulations. Indeed, the balance of their finances can’t have been great after a spend north of £500million last season.
As such, they’ve seen the back of star men Mount and Havertz. The former has joined Manchester United in a deal which could rise to £60million, and the latter was bought by Arsenal for £65million.
While that will allow the Blues to now bring in some replacements, Sky Sports pundit Merson has admitted he doesn’t “get it”.
“It may make sense if Chelsea had to bring some money in, but there is no point getting money in at the expense of missing out on the top four, which itself will lose the club more money,” he told Sky Sports.
Chelsea probably did have to bring money in, but it’s fair to bring up the point that missing out on top four again would br far from ideal for them.
However, given they’re likely to make some improvements now, it’s the strengthening of their direct rivals which could be the main problem.
“Manchester United and Arsenal are going to be in the mix for the top four next season along with Chelsea, so why would you weaken yourself by selling two of your best players to direct rivals?” Merson added.
“Chelsea fans will say Mount and Havertz didn’t have great seasons last season, but they are proper players who will definitely improve the teams they go to.”
Merson also raises a fair point that Chelsea have not really signed any proven stars of late – in terms of this summer’s signings Nicolas Jackson is just 22, Diego Moreira 18, while Christopher Nkunku is more experienced at 25.
The latter seems like he has what it takes to translate his great form from last season – 16 goals in 25 games – to the Premier League, but other signings may not, while the players that have been sold, Mount especially, were very useful assets that had proven track records.
“The way Chelsea are going about it, it’s like they are trying to dominate football in five years’ time, but we all know how football changes and these up-and-coming kids aren’t guaranteed to be the stars of the future,” Merson added.
READ MORE: Pundit admits Harry Kane makes Chelsea title challengers, as he shuts down other big club move
