Transfer News: Paul Merson believes Cristiano Ronaldo would solve Chelsea’s striker issue
Chelsea have gotten off to a good start to the new season, picking up four points from a possible six. The Blues were denied a perfect record courtesy of Harry Kane’s injury-time equaliser and controversial refereeing.
But one thing that was common in both the games was that Chelsea lacked a proper number nine. And Paul Merson believes Cristiano Ronaldo is the solution to that problem. Merson gave his opinion while writing in his column for Sky Sports (h/t Daily Star).
Chelsea were outstanding against Tottenham on Sunday, they dominated the match from start to finish, but they haven’t got a goalscorer or centre-forward and that cost them three points. I cannot believe they didn’t or haven’t gone in for Cristiano Ronaldo. He just ticks all of the boxes Chelsea are lacking.
Ronaldo has made it clear that he wants to leave Manchester United this summer. The 37-year-old wants to continue his great legacy in the Champions League, something which United are unavailable to provide. They have also gotten off to the worst possible start, losing both their games.
The Blues were said to be interested in the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, with owner Todd Boehly having met his agent. But nothing has come to pass and Ronaldo still plays for United.
Kai Havertz has continued playing in the middle of the front three, rotating the position with Raheem Sterling. Romelu Lukaku and Timo Werner, the two strikers at the club, have left this summer. This has left Armando Broja as the only natural number nine in the team, but he still needs more experience.
Ronaldo’s goal-scoring ability and records speak for themselves. At an age when players consider retirement or become back-up to much younger players, the 37-year-old was United’s top scorer last season. His 18 league goals played a very important part in helping the Red Devils finish sixth and qualify for the Europa League.
There is no doubt that adding Ronaldo will help up in attack in terms of depth and quality. But given his age, he cannot be expected to press throughout the game, something critical in Thomas Tuchel’s setup. Also, he would likely be a short-term solution to the problem.
More Chelsea News:
- Chelsea fall short with £40m bid for Everton striker Anthony Gordon
- Chelsea are set to offer a new contract with improved terms to Armando Broja
- Trevoh Chalobah garners transfer interest from several clubs with Chelsea role uncertain
There are still over two weeks left before the transfer market closes. It remains to be seen if the Blues make a formal approach for the former Real Madrid man but it would be a surprise to see the Red Devils letting him leave for a direct top-four rival such as us.