Versatile Chelsea youngster Gael Kakuta has caught the eye of a couple of Premier League clubs, namely Newcastle and Spurs.
Having failed in their bid to get Stewart Downing, Spurs are after a decent option on the left and with Kinnear describing his own left-sided option (N’Zogbia) as “insomnia”, it’s fair to say he’s looking for someone a little more lively down that particular wing as well. So, for both clubs, the highly rated Chelsea winger fits the bill.
Kakuta joined Chelsea over a year ago from Lens and in his first year was voted Academy Scholar of the Year by staff and peers. His first year also saw him finish our youth top scorer with 12 goals from 20 games. The start of this season saw him out with hamstring trouble but he was soon back in form, scoring in the FA Youth Cup win against Manchester United. He’s also played in our reserves and was named in the senior squad against Stoke this month.
The 17 year-old is a pretty skilled wideman and although usually seen on the left wing, his versatility allows him to play attacking midfield and up front. Hardly surprising then that the French Under-17 international has been tipped as a player to watch for the future along with Miroslav Stoch.
Chelsea team-mate, Frank Lampard suggests “I think Kakuta stands out for his ability. His natural talent for someone who is just 16 (17 now Frank), is amazing and Stoch is also impressive. Playing on the big occasions at the big stadiums is what it’s all about and this will give them a taste. They just have to make sure they don’t freeze, and I have every confidence in them.”
The suggestion is that Chelsea would only let Kakuta go on a short term loan, so whoever gets him better make the most of him.