Chelsea losing out on Andre Onana to Manchester United could actually prove to be a huge transfer boost for Mauricio Pochettino. The Blues had identified Onana as a goalkeeping option to sign but they ultimately left the race following a key decision made by the Argentine.
Despite a turbulent 2022/23 season for Kepa Arrizabalaga, which perhaps perfectly engulfed his spell in blue, Pochettino believes, along with goalkeeping coach Toni Jimenez, he can take the Spaniard to the next level.
Therefore, with that mission in play, signing a new No.1 is no longer in the plans and Pochettino is instead looking for a shot-stopper who can compete with Kepa for the position.
Inter's firm asking price meant Onana was no longer an option, with Gregor Kobel, Diogo Costa and Giorgi Mamardashvili becoming the top targets. Chelsea leaving the race for Onana also opened the door for Man United to make their mark and a transfer being agreed between the two parties is now very close.
After seeing a £39million package rejected, Erik ten Hag is set to return with an improved offer and there is a feeling that £47million in total could be enough to get a deal over the line. If Man United meet that request, Chelsea could end up benefitting greatly with Inter then having amicable funds to permanently purchase Romelu Lukaku.
The Italian giants have already seen one proposal, worth around £23million rejected but another is expected to follow with Lukaku keen to seal a departure this week. Further highlighting his want to leave quickly, Lukaku has also decided he will not return to Cobham on Wednesday to begin pre-season preparations with Chelsea, according to The Telegraph.
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The Belgium international remains hopeful that Inter will bring him back to the club and it is being claimed by The Times they will step up those efforts once Onana's move to Old Trafford is complete. The report also adds that Chelsea want £40million for Lukaku and with Inter set to pocket suitable funds from the sale of Onana, they will then have the financial means to sign the 30-year-old.
