When Chelsea were resoundingly thumped by bitter rivals Arsenal way back in late September, it was hard to imagine the Blues in the Transfer Tavern sitting atop the league so soon.  

Antonio Conte’s switch to a 3-4-3 formation looks to have turned the west London giants from no-hopers to potential champions, much to the punters’ delight.

Still, it remains unclear as to whether such a formation is a short-term fix as the Italian embarks upon what is hopefully a long-term project at Stamford Bridge.

While he’s inherited a side that won the title at a canter only last year, so much has changed in the landscape of the Premier League since.

So, without in mind, it’s clear the former Juventus and Italy coach needs further backing in the market to round out his squad.

With the January window a matter of days away, Roman Abramovich must have his chequebook at the ready.

Considering all this, here are TWO players who would surely deliver Chelsea the league.

Virgil van Dijk

Widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the Premier League, Southampton’s Virgil van Dijk seems tailor-made for an Italian coach.

Pairing the Dutchman with David Luiz and Gary Cahill in the backline would provide extra solidity, as well as allow him to go on his trademark marauding runs from deep.

Niklas Sule

While Victor Moses and Marcos Alonso have proved to be revelations in the full-back berths for the Blues, the Evening Standard claim Conte is looking to strengthen in that area.

To that end, German international Niklas Sule would be a solid option to round out that department.

One of the most exciting full-backs in Europe, the 21-year-old is flexible across the backline, such is his understanding of the game.