Transfer Centre

Mauricio Pochettino 'to block any Real Madrid move for Chelsea's Kai Havertz'

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 04 June 2023

Pochettino 'to block any Real Madrid move for Havertz'

Chelsea head coach Mauricio Pochettino reportedly plans to block any Kai Havertz exit this summer, amid speculation regarding a move to Real Madrid.

Mauricio Pochettino reportedly plans to keep Kai Havertz in his Chelsea squad next season.

Although the Argentine does not officially start work at Stamford Bridge until July 1, he is having a major say in Chelsea's current transfer business.

The Blues cannot afford to wait until Pochettino formally starts work due to their need to make as many sales as possible before June 30 to boost their financial situation.

When a list of 15 available players was reportedly compiled earlier this week, the name of Havertz was not mentioned, an indication that he would represent Chelsea for a fourth season.

However, the situation involving Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has seemingly created a scenario where Los Blancos could move for the Germany international.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti looks dejected on April 8, 2023 © Reuters

Real have since confirmed that Benzema will be ending his legendary stint at the Bernabeu, joining Marco Asensio and Eden Hazard in leaving the La Liga giants this summer.

That puts Carlo Ancelotti in a position where he is three attacking players short ahead of 2023-24 at a time when in excess of £100m is allegedly being spent on central midfielder Jude Bellingham.

A report indicated that Ancelotti was a fan of Havertz's versatility, the 23-year-old capable of playing as a number, on the flank and down the middle of the attack.

Nevertheless, according to AS, Pochettino views Havertz as an 'essential' part of his first-team squad ahead of his arrival.

Chelsea's Kai Havertz in action with Manchester United's Luke Shaw on May 25, 2023 © Reuters

The 51-year-old is said to be planning on using Havertz on a regular basis, theoretically making a transfer what the report describes as 'next to impossible'.

One potential stumbling block in that scenario is Havertz having just two years left on his contract and there seemingly being no discussions underway regarding a renewal.

Chelsea co-owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital have allegedly adopted a policy where they ideally do not want players entering the final 24 months of their terms to maximise their asking price.

Havertz has just endured an underwhelming campaign, contributing just seven goals and one assist from his 35 outings in the Premier League as Chelsea finishing in 12th place.