Former Arsenal star Paul Merson hails Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich for approach in summer transfer window
Former Arsenal star Paul Merson has hailed Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich for his approach to the summer transfer window as Frank Lampard sets about returning the club to their former heights.
The Blues have acted decisively in the market by capturing Ajax ace Hakim Ziyech and RB Leipzig striker Timo Werner.
Chelsea have rarely gone on major spending sprees in recent times, albeit they had to endure a one-window transfer ban, but Abramovich smells an opportunity this summer.
Werner, the second top goalscorer in the Bundesliga, will arrive at Stamford Bridge for £47million.
And Merson thinks that bit of business sends a major statement to the rest of the Premier League.
“It’s hard to keep on playing up front on your own every week at Abraham’s age,” he said.
“It takes its toll – he’s done absolutely brilliant – there’s no doubt about that.
“But he’s still learning, and this lad Werner’s come in and he’s a bargain. This lad would’ve cost a lot more in the market of say, four or five months ago.
“For me, this is a massive statement by Abramovich. I think Abramovich has looked at it and thought, ‘You know what, if we can start buying players now, we can be a threat’
“I think he looked at it beforehand and thought if they start spending £40m on him and £50m on him, where are we going to come? Third or fourth again?
“This closes the gap on Liverpool and Manchester City, especially with the lad from Ajax coming in.”
Tammy Abraham has had to shoulder most of the goalscoring burden this year as Lampard had limited options up front.
The arrival of Werner could see the England international no longer be guaranteed a starting spot
“Abraham has to be patient – you cannot play every week – stay there and learn the game and he’ll get a chance,” Merson added.
“The lad coming in, he doesn’t have to play down the middle, and he might not, it depends what’s happening with Willian and Pedro.”
Chelsea are also linked with Leicester City left-back Ben Chilwell and reportedly leading Real Madrid in the race to sign Bayer Leverkusen play-maker Kai Havertz.
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