Chelsea told how to unlock 'next David Silva' as Mauricio Pochettino gifted perfect transfer

Mauricio Pochettino has been told how Cole Palmer can become the next David Silva at Chelsea. The 21-year-old playmaker has been heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge recently as the Blues boss hopes to further bolster his squad before the summer transfer window slams shut on Friday night.

football.london understands that Chelsea and Manchester City have reached an agreement, which is thought to be in the region of £45million, for the transfer of Palmer. It's believed that the west Londoners had an initial £35million bid rejected by the Premier League champions before tabling their second proposal on Wednesday afternoon.

It's understood that Chelsea are very confident of wrapping up a deal for the England Under-21 international before the deadline at 11pm on Friday evening. After Palmer was handed his English top-flight debut in 2021, Gary Neville was left bemused at the midfielder's incredible ability and branded him as a 'David Silva clone'.

"It’s not an academy, it’s a cloning system," said the former Manchester United defender. "They’re like clones, they’re all the same. It’s almost like David Silva’s left them all behind!"

Then, last season, Ashley Cole spoke of his experience working with Palmer during his time with the England Under-21s as a coach. Ahead of City's FA Cup tie against Swindon Town, the former Chelsea left-back heaped the youngster with praise and explained how to get the best out of him.

"I've had the pleasure to work with him and see the quality he possesses," said Cole. "He's a very intelligent winger that likes to come off the lines. He's got a bright future. He's on that pathway to the senior team hopefully."

Palmer went on to score against Swindon, with Cole continuing to shower him with praise. He added: "It opens up the pitch. With his one v one ability it makes it difficult for defenders to get out to him. He's got the brains where he can isolate you one versus one and take you down the line."

Palmer quickly emerged as a target for Chelsea on Wednesday morning before reportedly wrapping up a deal by the evening. Speaking on Sky Sports, Paul Merson described the youngster as a 'good signing' who could help the Blues solve their woes in front of goal.

"I think he’s a good player," said the former Arsenal ace. "I thought after the Community Shield he’d get a little bit more time at Man City. A bit shocked if I’m being honest.

"Good signing, good player. He’s got a bit of guile about him. Not so much as a dribble but he can find that pass and score a goal… It just shows at the moment Man City don’t think Chelsea are that much of a threat to them."