Former England, Blackburn and Bolton manager Sam Allardyce has warned Graham Potter of the dangers of his club spending so much money. Chelsea broke a plethora of records in January with their outlandish and aggressive spending but it may prove to be a wise investment.
Todd Boehly and his supporting cast in the new ownership have rapidly rebuilt the squad and added a youthful vibe. His 18 signings have cost over £550million but have come in less than nine months. It has helped to add options to an otherwise ageing and underperforming group.
The methods used have come under major scrutiny across the footballing world, especially after the decision to make Enzo Fernandez the most expensive player in British history. The 22-year-old only moved to Benfica in the summer for £10million and played less than 30 matches before his value skyrocketed.
READ MORE: Every word Graham Potter said on Enzo Fernandez, Chelsea squad decision, James, Chilwell, Fofana
The midfielder comes into Chelsea with anticipation surrounding him, especially after Jorginho moved to Arsenal on deadline day. The Italian's departure has left Potter short of options in midfield with three first team players out injured adding to the clamor for a new addition.
Allardyce is wary of being caught up in the hype though. Speaking to the William Hill and Footy Accumulators podcast, No Tippy Tappy Football, he said: “Chelsea’s signing of Enzo Fernandez worries me.
“What if it doesn’t work? What a commitment it is for eight years because obviously, the league haven’t shut that loophole down yet. It’s £106million; it’s a huge risk for the club, and particularly for the manager, who will get the blame if it doesn’t work. I don’t think Fernandez was his choice.
“I doubt the player was his first choice, but that’s how the top works now. You are not really the manager anymore, you are just a coach, and you accept these players and try and do your best with them.”
football.london understands that Potter is taking an active role in recruitment and is working closely with the new look set-up in place. The appointment of his very own hand-picked recruitment advisor Kyle Macaulay, who moved with him from Brighton having worked closely with Potter before that too, indicates that Fernandez's move was from a joined up approach.
Meanwhile new director Christopher Vivell was very much leading the bid to sign Noni Madueke. Too many chefs may spoil the broth but for now Chelsea's planning appears to be working together.
READ NEXT :
Every word Graham Potter said on Enzo Fernandez, Chelsea squad decision, James, Chilwell, Fofana
Graham Potter makes Hakim Ziyech decision as Chelsea receive triple injury boost ahead of Fulham
Graham Potter waits for crucial Enzo Fernandez confirmation ahead of Chelsea vs Fulham
Enzo Fernandez starts, Kante dilemma: Best Chelsea XI after dream £323m January transfer window
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from Stamford Bridge
