Chelsea might not be competing for the Premier League crown but the Blues could find themselves in a battle with genuine title contenders Arsenal and Liverpool over a player's signature.
That player is Gabriel Moscardo, a highly-rated Brazilian midfielder who is seen by many as one of the best up-and-coming defensive midfielders in world football. The 18-year-old plays for Corinthians and has been subject to interest from Chelsea before. However, Pochettino's side are not the only ones eyeing the teenager.
While Todd Boehly and Co. have spent exuberantly in the transfer window since taking ownership of the London giants, the owners have targetted mainly young players. The English club aim to continue this policy. Unfortunately, while Moscardo ticks a lot of boxes for the Blues, they could face stiff competition from their domestic rivals.
Liverpool, who could do with a defensive midfielder after missing out on both Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia to Chelsea, and Arsenal, who will need to replace the aging Jorginho and injury-prone Thomas Partey soon, are also keeping tabs on the Brazilian.
This is according to a report by the Evening Standard which also names Barcelona as an interested party. The Blaugrana's stronghold over the Brazilian market could prove pivotal should they decide to intensify their interest in Moscardo but it remains to be seen whether the Catalan giants are serious about this player.
Chelsea have already lodged a bid for the South American, offering £18M over the summer. However, that was rejected as the player is said to be valued at around £26M. Todd Boehly and Co. are interested in returning this January to bring another talented prospect to Stamford Bridge.
The Brazilian top-flight season ends in December, thus paving the way for a potential winter exit. Corinthians are 11th in the Brasileirão table and will hope to climb up the standings before the campaign ends.
Chelsea, on the other hand, remain 10th in the Premier League following their dramatic 4-4 draw at home to Man City. Pochettino's men face a run of tough fixtures after the international break, with Sterling and Co. taking on Newcastle, Brighton, and Manchester United in their next three games.
