Mauricio Pochettino could build the perfect Chelsea starting lineup with the signing of Paulo Dybala. The 29-year-old forward has been heavily linked with an exit from Roma this summer following a handful of eye-catching displays.
Dybala, who sees his contract at the Stadio Olimpico expire in 2025, featured 25 times for Jose Mourinho's side in the Serie A last term, directly contributing towards 19 goals. His impressive performances for the Italian giants have reportedly courted the interest of some top clubs around Europe, and he could be available for just €12million (£10.3m).
According to Italian journalist Matteo De Santis, as quoted by RomaPress, Chelsea are considering a move for Dybala, who has been specifically requested by Pochettino. The report states that Roma aren't concerned by the Blues' interest and remain confident in keeping him next season.
So, with that being said, football.london has taken a look at how the Blues could line up under Pochettino after just two huge transfers.
Formation
Pochettino is well known for his forward-thinking approach. Over the years, he's usually preferred a 4-2-3-1 which looks like a 4-3-3 while attacking and a 4-4-2 when defending.
Goalkeeper
Despite flashes of brilliance every now and then, Kepa has struggled to impress since joining Chelsea for a record-breaking fee a few years ago. But, with Pochettino seemingly content with the Spaniard for now, the Blues are prioritising other deals first.
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Defence
Ben Chilwell is expected to be preferred at left-back next season, with Reece James mirroring him on the right. At centre-half, Pochettino has a wealth of options at his disposal, coming in the shape of Levi Colwill, Benoit Badishile, Wesley Fofana and Thiago Silva.
Midfield
If Chelsea can partner Enzo Fernandez with Caicedo then the Argentine will finally be able to step into the No.8 role. The south American duo can play a double pivot and sit behind Christopher Nkunku, who will likely support Nicolas Jackson - a lone striker.
In the Frenchman's absence, Dybala can slot in and operate in a similar role. As for the wingers, Mykhailo Mudryk is expected to be operated as an outlet on the left.
However, the 22-year-old faces tough competition from Raheem Sterling. On the right, Noni Madueke is a very strong option, but the arrival of Dybala would certainly throw a spanner in the works.
Attack
Chelsea have been in desperate need of a dynamic striker for a few years now. The Blues have struggled to replace Didier Drogba and Diego Costa, with only Olivier Giroud coming close to a slice of success.
Next season, Pochettino will have Nicolas Jackson and Armando Broja at his disposal. While Dybala would probably prefer a central role of some sort, it's unlikely that he's dislodge Nkunku from the No.10 role or either of the aforementioned duo up top in the startling lineup.
Lineup
Kepa Arrizbalaga; Ben Chilwell, Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana, Reece James; Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo; Mykhailo Mudryk, Christopher Nkunku, Paulo Dybala; Nicolas Jackson.
