Matt Law of The Telegraph has issued an update on Chelsea’s attempts to recruit Christoph Freund. The update will prove frustrating for Blues fans as it presents another setback in the club’s attempt to fill the role.
According to Law, “Christoph Freund is considering staying at Red Bull Salzburg”. The Austrian was expected to make the move to London but his team’s insistence that they don’t want him to leave has him second-guessing a move. Fabrizio Romano later confirmed the move is off.
This isn’t the first setback Todd Boehly has faced as The Telegraph mentions Michael Edwards also deciding against taking the Sporting Director role.
Christoph Freund Reconsidering Chelsea Move
Latest on Christoph Freund, who had expected to be appointed as the club's sporting director – sources close to him believe he is now considering staying at RB Salzburg #cfc. Story here: https://t.co/A3UjGnLVLf
— Matt Law (@Matt_Law_DT) September 20, 2022
Mastermind
It comes as no surprise that the Blues are seeking the Salzburg man as his track record of signings is second to none. He is credited with having a role in discovering players like Erling Haaland, Sadio Mane and Naby Keita. With Boehly seemingly wanting a long-term project at Stamford Bridge, there are few better candidates than Freund.
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Until now, the American has been operating as interim Sporting Director but the Telegraph notes that he wants a new Sporting Director in place before the World Cup.
Official. RB Salzburg confirm they’ve decided to keep Christoph Freund at the club and he will not join Chelsea. 🚨🔵 #CFC
The agreement reached on contract between Freund and Chelsea last Sunday has been cancelled as Red Bull Group will keep the director. pic.twitter.com/bo5h8ntWfl
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 20, 2022
Setback
Based on comments from Stephan Reiter, it is going to be difficult for the London side to get their target. Freund is locked into a contract until 2026 and unless he angles for a move away, there is no reason for the Austrian side to part with their director. This presents an issue for Chelsea as their shortlist is already growing smaller following Edwards’ refusal.
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Law states that the former Champions League winners have not yet given up on their target but they are ready to move for other candidates if they become available.
