There were major expectations that Chelsea would make a big splash this summer, especially after it was revealed that our FFP issues were less serious than thought. But so far it’s been something of a phoney war – the only first team-ready signing made so far was the free transfer arrival of Tosin Adarabioyo.
That hasn’t stopped the rest of the BlueCo machinery working though, and you’d have been foolish to bet against the Blues adding some more South American talent this summer, given their record under this ownership.
Following on the heels of Estevao Willian, set to join next summer, Chelsea are on the verge of signing Aaron Anselmino. The Boca Juniors defender will go directly to Strasbourg on loan.
That’s according to Adam Leventhal of the Athletic, who reported on the move this morning.
New: Chelsea close to completing transfer of Aaron Anselmino (19yo, def/m) from Boca Juniors. ~£17m package, 6yr deal, Strasbourg loan likely. Talks advancing. #CFC
Further details ⬇️ @TheAthleticFChttps://t.co/WbSRPEH6aE
— Adam Leventhal (@AdamLeventhal) June 27, 2024
An interesting arrangement
It’s always interesting to see how the club arrange these deals – some players will be bought by Chelsea and loaned to Strasbourg, as in this case. However sometimes it seems players will be bought directly by the French club. That seemed to be what the plan was with Pedro Lima, before the young right back decided to make a late change to join Wolves instead.
This method of buying with Chelsea then loaning the player uses up a previous foreign loan slot, but does make a move back to the first team easier to arrange. This could hint that Anselmino is closer to the first team picture than anticipated.
There’s also all manner of FFP and PSR considerations to make – Chelsea are clearly looking to juggle these players around to maximise their benefits on both.
But, first things first – let’s see how he gets on in his first year in European football, and hope that he shines in Ligue 1 and looks ready to improve our main squad in a year’s time.
