Ex-Chelsea star Shaun Wright-Phillips has raised doubts about reports linking his former club with a move for Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho.
It is believed that the Blues could sign the Argentinian international for around £60m this month but, speaking to Genting Casino, Wright-Phillips said there isn’t space for the player in the first-team squad:
“I’ve been there, I’ve been in the world. I don’t buy into links. That can just be agents. It’s a weird link, to be honest with you. Because why take Sancho? You might as well have just taken Garnacho at the beginning. So, it’s a weird comparison.”
“For me, it just feels like it’s an agent trying to get a move out of somebody else to be more aggressive in their approach, which doesn’t seem to be working. So, I’m not buying into that. I think in terms of attack, there’s not much missing from Cheslea, so I couldn’t see where he would fit in. Chelsea have got top wingers. You don’t really want more than two in each position.”
Chelsea are seeking a replacement for Mudryk
Wright-Philips is correct to point out that signing a winger is not a priority. Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of the game against Manchester City, head coach Enzo Maresca said that he was “happy” with the players he has in wide areas.
However, he did mention Mykhailo Mudryk as an option, but the Ukrainian international is currently not available due to a provisional drugs ban.
The club are favourites to land Garnacho
At the time of writing, it looks like the 20-year-old could make the switch to Stamford Bridge, with rivals Napoli having opted to pursue alternatives after their initial bid was rejected by United.
Despite Wright-Phillips’ comments, it does seem as if Garnacho may end up joining the London club before the transfer window shuts.
Find out who is in Chelsea’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here