According to renowned journalist Raphael Honigstein (via Sky Sports), Borussia Dortmund star Christian Pulisic is set to move to Chelsea in January. The ESPN and Der Spiegel journalist claims that the Blues are the only team that have made a firm offer and a move to Stamford Bridge stands as a likely proposition at the moment.
Pulisic is regarded as one of Europe’s most talented young footballers but exactly what can he bring to the table for the Blues? Here is a SWOT analysis of this American international.
Strengths
Pulisic is labelled as an old-school winger, who loves to get in behind the defence and onto the byline to provide a myriad of dangerous crosses into the box. His pace combined with his quick movements enable him to take on defenders – making him a definite threat on the flanks.
Indeed, the American international has averaged 3.5 dribbles per game this season. But, his strengths are not only limited to just pace and dribbling as the 20-year-old is also a confident player, who is never afraid to have a shot on goal.
Furthermore, Pulisic is often useful when it comes to playing a quick-passing game in the final third, which certainly fits in well under Maurizio Sarri’s dynamic attacking philosophy at Chelsea.
Weaknesses
Despite being touted as one of Europe’s most talented attackers, Pulisic has shown a series of weaknesses, of late, which, in turn, has prevented him from finding a regular spot in the Dortmund starting lineup.
His finishing has been below par this season while the 20-year-old often struggles to cope with high-pressing opposition. He has also lacked concentration and hasn’t been as influential as one would normally expect.
In addition, Pulisic has been dispossessed almost five times per 90 minutes this season, which certainly wouldn’t go down too well with Sarri.
Opportunity
Pulisic seems like a decent replacement for Eden Hazard if a solution is not found to the latter’s contract situation or indeed an addition to the attacking set-up alongside the Belgian but only if he manages to play to his potential. His success at Chelsea will largely depend on how Sarri manages to utilize his qualities in the final third.
But having said that, the Dortmund star is undoubtedly a quality talent, who deserves to be included in the starting lineup right from the get-go.
Threats
Pulisic’s below-par performances this season will be a huge worry for Sarri and the fact that he often struggles against high pressing teams could develop as a huge weakness, especially in the fast-paced Premier League.
Therefore, Chelsea could be taking a huge risk in flushing out over €50 million for this Borussia Dortmund star based on his recent run of form.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
