Our Chelsea fans here in the Transfer Tavern will be hoping that the board will back Antonio Conte in this month’s winter window, in a bid to not replicate the past summer’s disaster. Indeed, though things have gone smoother than expected, it’s not all been easy at Stamford Bridge. 

Chelsea are looking to regain their Premier League crown this season, and will be hoping that a solid bit of backing from the board in this January window can push the campaign forward. Although they have the task of catching a Man City side that are way ahead on points at present, they need a strong showing toward the end of the month.

Conte has been mainly dealing with a small squad this season due to injuries, and recruitment in January is a must if he is to keep his team fresh and injury free. Some key areas are needed to strengthen but at the top of his list is surely a striker, according to our regulars.

With that in mind, our landlord takes a look at two potential players that Conte could bring in to the team for a strong 2018…

Andy Carroll

The surprise of the transfer window is surely the Andy Carroll link to Chelsea, with it bemusing many of the locals in the bar this week. Reportedly, Conte wants the England striker in on loan, however, West Ham value the forward at £30m and would surely prefer for him to move permanently to increase funds at the Hammers for some winter recruitment.

If this deal goes through, it will surely spell the end for Michy Batshuayi’s time at Stamford Bridge.

Radja Nainggolan

The Roma midfielder enforcer has been reportedly a long-term target for Conte and once again it seems Chelsea are in for the Belgian. He hasn’t appeared for the Italian club since December last year and may seek a move away to gain first team action on a regular basis.

The 30-year-old has been a target for many of the Premier Lague clubs in the past and if Chelsea can get this one over the line, it’ll be some major reinforcement in the much-needed midfield area.