February 2nd 2025.
Renowned football pundit Paul Merson has some advice for Chelsea as they continue to compete for a spot in the Champions League next season. According to Merson, the key to securing their place in the elite competition is to swoop in and hijack Arsenal's deal for highly sought-after striker Alexander Isak before the transfer deadline.
Despite putting up a strong fight against Premier League leaders Liverpool for much of the season, Chelsea's form has dipped since mid-December, leaving them in a tight race for a top-four finish. With only one win in their last seven games, including losses to Ipswich Town and Fulham, the Blues have now slipped to sixth place in the table, just one point away from the top four and a whopping 16 points behind Liverpool.
Although Chelsea has been relatively quiet in the January transfer window, there is still time for them to strengthen their squad before the deadline on Monday night. Rumors have linked them to a number of players, including Manchester United's Alejandro Garnacho and Bayern Munich's Mathys Tel, but Merson believes that the shock signing of Isak from Newcastle United would take them "to the next level" and solidify their top-four spot.
Isak, who has been in top form with 18 goals in his last 19 appearances, has been heavily pursued by Arsenal, but Merson believes he has the potential to lead the Gunners to Premier League glory. However, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is reluctant to part with the star striker, and the club has set a hefty price tag of over £100 million.
Merson believes that Isak's consistent performance and impressive goal-scoring record make him the best centre-forward in the league at the moment. He also predicts that many top clubs will be vying for his signature, and with Financial Fair Play regulations in play, it remains to be seen if Newcastle can hold on to him.
In Merson's opinion, if Arsenal were to secure Isak's signature, they would be strong contenders for the Premier League title, and the same goes for Chelsea, who would secure their top-four spot and elevate their game to the next level. However, it seems that Arsenal has shifted their focus to another Premier League striker in the final days of the transfer window, with a bid for Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins being rejected.
Merson believes that Arsenal's bid for Watkins was just a show for their fans, as they knew they wouldn't be able to secure the player for the offered amount. However, he also acknowledges that Watkins would be an excellent addition to the Gunners squad, despite being 29 years old. In Merson's opinion, it's the present that matters the most, and if Arsenal were to sign Watkins, they could potentially win the league this year or in the near future.
In conclusion, Merson believes that Chelsea should make a move for Isak to secure their place in the Champions League, while Arsenal should not be too concerned about the age of their potential target, as it's the current performance that matters the most. With the transfer deadline looming, it remains to be seen which club will come out on top in this race for top talent.
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