Chelsea were more pro-active in the transfer market as it neared it’s conclusion, as they went on to sign four players in total. 

Jorginho and Kepa Arrizabalaga were among the standout signings for Chelsea, that was until the Blues conducted a deal to bring Mateo Kovacic on-loan from Real Madrid, with want-away goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois going the other way permanently. 

The Croatian midfielder was one of the key players to help his country towards the World Cup final and played a lot more regularly with Real Madrid than some might think. 

After making 36 appearances in all competitions, Kovacic provided three assists from a central-midfield role that required more defending than attacking. 

Kovacic will battle with Cesc Fabregas for a slot in the centre of midfield, accompanied by N’Golo Kante and fellow new arrival Jorginho. The Blues now have the making of an extremely capable midfield and team surrounding them. If Maurizio Sarri can get to work quick, adapting to England alongside his new stars, this Chelsea squad could be challenging the top four again. 

In this set-up, Kovacic can expect to be the more attacking midfielder, whilst Kante and Jorginho sweep away any danger that may come near. 

The deal to bring Mateo Kovacic gets better every time you think about it as Courtois was clearly wanting to leave Chelsea for Real Madrid and the Blues actually managed a great deal by including Kovacic on a loan. The Croatian midfielder is a talented player and one that could complete Chelsea’s perfect midfield, alongside N’golo Kante and Jorginho. 

Is the Kovacic the final piece of the jigsaw for Chelsea... Let us know!