According to a report from Football.London, Chelsea have entered the competition with Newcastle United to acquire Real Betis’ rising star, Assane Diao. The 18-year-old winger’s impressive performances have garnered attention from multiple teams. It has also been suggested that Betis are taking measures to safeguard the player by seeking to raise his £30 million release clause before the upcoming January transfer window.
Diao’s Exceptional Performances in La Liga
Assane Diao’s rapid rise within Real Betis’ ranks has established him as one of Europe’s most promising young talents. In his breakout season in La Liga, the 18-year-old Senegalese forward has remarkably netted six goals in just 15 appearances for his team.
Diao’s potential stands out as he maintains an average of 1.1 shots, 0.4 key passes, and 1.9 successful dribbles per game in the Spanish league. Moreover, his adeptness in distributing the ball is evident, boasting an impressive 80.3% pass completion rate in La Liga (statistics sourced from whoscored).
Can Pochettino Bring Him To Chelsea?
The proposition of acquiring Diao’s signature under the leadership of Mauricio Pochettino could bring significant benefits to the Blues’ attacking front, aligning well with the team’s tactics and enhancing their offensive prowess.
Diao, an 18-year-old forward showcasing remarkable speed and agility, embodies qualities that resonate with Pochettino’s tactical framework. His attributes align seamlessly with Chelsea’s style, particularly in executing swift transitions from defense to attack, a fundamental aspect of Pochettino’s strategy. The Senegalese talent’s ability to swiftly navigate the pitch could amplify Chelsea’s capacity to capitalize on counter-pressing opportunities, a hallmark of Pochettino’s approach.
Moreover, Diao’s reputation for his dribbling prowess presents an enticing prospect for the Blues. In situations where opposing defenses remain compact and resistant, his adeptness in navigating tight spaces and breaking down defensive lines could provide the Blues with a crucial edge in the final third. Pochettino’s tactical ingenuity often thrives on intricate build-up play and breaking defensive structures, making Diao’s abilities a fitting addition to the manager’s strategy.
Furthermore, the timing couldn’t be better for the West London club to secure Diao’s signature. As the club seeks to fortify its attacking options, Diao’s youth and potential present an opportunity for long-term growth and development within the squad. However, Pochettino would have to present an intriguing offer to Real Betis in order to lure Diao away from them but it raises concerns of whether spending a huge sum on a youngster would be worth the investment.
