Why Mauricio Pochettino could be the key to Liverpool's summer rebuild as Chelsea plans revealed

The uncertainty surrounding the managerial vacancy at Chelsea could be coming to an end, with former Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino now strong favourite for the role.

Pochettino, 51, has been out of work since being harshly sacked by Paris Saint-Germain in July – just 18 months after taking charge of the circus that is the Ligue 1 club.

The former Spurs manager, who was considered for the Manchester United job before Erik ten Hag's appointment, has emerged as the frontrunner to take over at Chelsea after Julian Nagelsmann withdrew from the race at the end of last week.

The Guardian claim that Pochettino has held a series of positive talks with Chelsea's owners and confirmation of the Argentinian as the permanent successor to Graham Potter could come soon.

The expected appointment of Pochettino will inevitably lead to transfer speculation around his former Tottenham players, most notably striker Harry Kane - who now looks destined to leave Spurs in the summer window.

How could Pochettino's appointment impact Liverpool?

Pochettino's imminent arrival at Stamford Bridge could have a knock-on effect for others clubs in the Premier League, including Liverpool.

According to The Telegraph, Pochettino is ready to back plans for a clear-out of Chelsea's bloated 31-man squad, with the Argentinian keen to trim it down before the start of pre-season.

That could play into the hands of Liverpool, who have been linked with several Chelsea players.

Liverpool are keen to sign Mason Mount, who is out of contract in 2024 and has so far failed to agree terms on a new deal at Stamford Bridge.

Liverpool stepped up their interest in Mount after pulling out of the race to sign his England international teammates Jude Bellingham.

But they must wait to see if the midfielder will seek a move away from Chelsea, the club he first joined at the age of six.

According to The Athletic, Mount held positive talks with Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly on Friday, where he reiterated his wish to keep hold of the player.

Should Mount remain with the Blues, Liverpool could instead make a move for fellow midfielder Mateo Kovacic. Like Mount, Kovacic is out of contract in 2024 and Chelsea could look to cash in on the Croatia international or risk losing him for free next year.

90min claim Liverpool are set to meet with Kovacic's representatives, with Manchester United and Manchester City also planning to hold talks.

Liverpool are also interested in Chelsea midfielder, Conor Gallagher, who is under contract with the Blues until 2025.

He represents a cheaper option than Mount and could provide the kind of midfield energy that has been sorely missed at Anfield this season.

The arrival of Pochettino, coupled with Chelsea's need to comply with Financial Fair Player (FFP) rules after a huge spending spree under Boehly, could proved to be beneficial for Liverpool in transfer negotiations for the three players.

But it remains to be seen whether Chelsea would be willing to sell one or more of the trio, especially to a direct rival.