Whilst we’re gearing up for another Premier League weekend in a couple of day’s time there’s also the small matter of AFCON 2017 getting the Transfer Tavern’s attention.

One of the major international tournaments in world football, AFCON gives us a rare insight into the best of African football and allows some lesser known names to make a reputation for themselves.

Indeed, it also allows more established stars to further their reputation and with the January transfer window running alongside it, it’s the perfect chance for clubs to take a look at potential acquisitions.

Indeed, our landlord thinks things will be no different at Chelsea with Antonio Conte looking to improve his side’s already significant chances of winning the league this season.

An interesting few weeks ahead, then, and here are three AFCON stars our landlord reckons the Italian needs to keep an eye on…

Vincent Aboubakar

The Cameroon forward exudes power and pace and would be an ideal back-up striker for Diego Costa at Chelsea.

He is only 24-years-old so has plenty of time to improve and will be looking to show at this tournament he can be a real threat going forward. He’s currently as Besiktas on loan from FC Porto and may look to use this tournament at his best chance of securing a good move for next season.

Franck Kessie

Kessie is one of the names being really talked about ahead of the tournament and has the potential to be the star of the show.

He’s really burst onto the scene for Atalanta in Serie A this year with his power and goal-scoring ability from midfield and if he has a good tournament here he could be set for a big move. Our landlord reckons Chelsea really need to watch this guy.

Yacine Brahimi

Brahimi is a very tricky winger and would surely be a hit in the Premier League with Chelsea.

The Blues’ first XI is very good, of course, and so the Algerian might find it hard to get in the side straight away but he’d certainly be a good option to have off of the bench. The Algerians are potentially the dark horses for this competition and Brahimi will be a big part of that.

Agree, Chelsea fans? Let us know below!