The Chelsea fans in the Transfer Tavern are expecting a couple of new signings in January…
After news broke yesterday suggesting that Oscar could be set for a move to China, thoughts quickly moved from his departure to who might come to Stamford Bridge in his place.
After all, with a reported transfer fee of £60 million – Chelsea could look to bring in a pretty sizeable upgrade on the Brazilian star.
It is absolutely essential that Conte looks to replace Oscar, as at present, Chelsea’s squad is simply not big enough. The Blues have had to rely on a set of 11 players for the best part of 2 months, and that is something that must change going forward.
The good news, from Conte’s perspective, is that the funds made available from the deal could allow him to bring a player in quickly – and with January fast approaching, he must begin considering his targets.
With that said, here are 3 quick-fire January replacements for Oscar at Chelsea – thoughts?
James Rodriguez
James Rodriguez is, undoubtedly, one of Europe’s finest midfielders – and a Real Madrid departure could be on the cards.
He hasn’t really featured under Zidane as of late, owing to the French manager’s vast array of midfield choice, and as a result, he could look to leave the Spanish capital.
After bursting onto the scene in 2014, Rodriguez has continued to impress in Madrid – and his dismissal from the first team speaks more of the quality in the Real Madrid first team, rather than his lack thereof.
Able to play across the attack, Rodriguez would offer a bit more variety than Oscar – and could, as a result, force his way into the Chelsea first team.
Radja Nainggolan
Radja Nainggolan is more defensive option for Conte – and on that could look towards if he feels that he has enough offensive depth.
Nainggolan would be a perfect partner alongside either Matic or Kante in the heart of the Chelsea midfield, and he would offer a real dynamism in the middle-of-the-park.
He would be a difficult player to sign, given that he has recently signed a new deal, but if Chelsea can spare much of the money made from the sale of Oscar – anything could happen.
Youri Tielemans
Conte could also look towards an option with potential, rather than a player to immediately come into the Chelsea first team.
Youri Tielemans looks destined for stardom, and looks set to be the next Belgian superstar.
A talented deep-lying midfielder, Tielemans could learn a lot from the likes of Matic and Fabregas – before growing into a first-team role down the road.
Conte may feel that he has sufficient depth at present, and planning for the future would be a wise decision.
