It’s only natural that Chelsea are strong churners in the proverbial rumour mill after such a nightmare defence of their title and a new manager on the way.
Though the Blues boast one of the best squads in the league, a major overhaul is widely expected following their complete capitulation ever since their coronation as Premier League champions almost a year ago.
With Manchester City landing the Holy Grail that is Pep Guardiola this summer, the Blues must act fast in order to not be left too far behind.
They can manage to attract top talent this year even without the allure of Champions League football, though much longer without entry to the continent’s elite competition will surely have adverse effects on player recruitment.
Naturally, most of the rumours have a particularly Italian flavour to them as their manager boasts a broad knowledge of the area.
However, it would be silly to suggest Antonio Conte and his staff are not casting their eyes further than Serie A.
Southampton’s Fraser Forster has been linked with a move to West London should ‘keeper Thibaut Courtois leave for Real Madrid, in a move that could revitalise a department left reeling from the absence of Petr Cech last year.
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Who else do we here in the Transfer Tavern think could follow? Well click the image to find out.
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Arturo Vidal
Bayern Munich’s Arturo Vidal enjoyed a good relationship with Conte while the two worked together at Juventus, establishing himself as one of the best midfielders in the world.
Though Chelsea’s hand was forced in the sale of Ramires – after all it would have been silly not to sell the Brazilian at such a huge price – his absence is becoming notable.
They lack energy and drive in the engine room, something their dear departed former Benfica man gave them in abundance.
Clearly, the Chilean is a substantial upgrade on Ramires, though gives them much of the same energy with much added quality.
Marquinhos
Jose Mourinho tried and failed to land John Stones as he searched for a long-term heir to John Terry.
Though the Everton man has seen his stock plummet since then, Manchester City are said to be in the driving seat as they bid to land a defender of huge potential.
It may not seem like it in this country, but there is a world beyond the former Barnsley man when it comes to talented young ball playing defenders.
PSG ace Marquinhos is reportedly unhappy with his bit-part, out of position role in the French capital, though remains a top defender.
Just 21 years of age, the Brazilian can mature into a classy central defender alongside the more imposing Kurt Zouma for many years to come.
Romelu Lukaku
Romelu Lukaku was always touted as the heir apparent of Didier Drogba. Ironically enough, the Belgian is only starting to fill that role now he’s left Stamford Bridge.
The Blues have always operated with a strong centre-forward to lead the line. Though Diego Costa is one of the best in the world at that on his day, doubts linger over his future in West London.
Lukaku’s form at Everton this season has seen him linked with a move to some of Europe’s biggest clubs, with a return to Chelsea one of the most frequently mooted.
Prizing him back at great expense may be a move that leaves decision makers at the club with egg on their faces, though they simply can’t afford him realising his true potential elsewhere in England.
They only have to look at the Kevin De Bruyne situation after all.
Javier Pastore
Oscar has never truly filled the role of a top class Number 10, though is not without glimpses of real talent.
Still, the Brazilian has been linked with a move away from Chelsea in a bid to raise funds as they plot a major rebuild to right the wrongs of this season.
There are a lack of top class Number 10s available right now, while Eden Hazard can obviously operate there.
However, shunting the Belgian out to the wing next season may well take some of the pressure weighing so heavily this season off him.
Moving for Javier Pastore of PSG to slot in between Hazard and Willian could create one of the most varied front lines in the league.
Seamus Coleman
Conte has always preferred his full-backs to operate as wing-backs. Though Serbian stalwart Branislav Ivanovic has improved as this nightmare season has continued, it’s been probably his worst as a Chelsea player.
Linked with a move to Roma, it is doubtful the 32-year old would be able to excel in a role that requires such athleticism any longer.
Irish international Seamus Coleman was linked with a move to the Bridge last year and would represent one of the best available options to fill that role.
Strong, quick and proven in the Premier League, the Everton star would be a welcome sight flying up and down the flanks.
