Chelsea have shown a lot of potential this season with some very promising performances under Frank Lampard, but it is clear that a number of signings will be needed for them to start challenging for titles once again.
Hakim Ziyech’s arrival from Ajax is likely only to be the beginning of a big overhaul of the first-team squad, with a number of signings expected as and when the season is completed.
So what areas will the Blues be looking at strengthening? A goalkeeper is almost certainly to be at the top of Lampard’s wishlist, while a striker, a left-back and perhaps another winger will be considered.
Here we look at four potential additions which would count as a perfect summer for Chelsea.
Jan Oblak: Kepa Arrizabalaga was recalled to the starting eleven right before the suspension of football fixtures but the Spaniard is unlikely to stay at Stamford Bridge for the long term. The Blues have been linked with Oblak as a potential replacement, and while he would be very difficult to land, the Slovenian international would be an instant improvement on their current options in between the sticks.
Ben Chilwell: It’s clear that Lampard is not particularly taken with either Emerson or Marcos Alonso. The latter certainly showed signs of improved form right before the enforced break, but it is believed a new left-back will be brought in. Chilwell is said to be the club’s main target, but Leicester will demand at least £50m for the 23-year-old so it remains to be seen if Chelsea will cough up the cash.
Jadon Sancho: Every top Premier League club is after the teenager after a superb season with Borussia Dortmund which has seen him score 17 goals and contribute 19 assists in 35 appearances. With both Willian and Pedro expected to depart the Blues at the end of their contracts, Sancho would certainly strengthen Lampard’s options out wide, if they can afford the eye-watering £120m price tag.
Timo Werner: While Tammy Abraham has done an admirable job this campaign, his ankle injury has only exposed the lack of depth in the striking department at the club. Werner is prolific in front of goal, having bagged 27 this season, and it would be a big coup if he arrived at Stamford Bridge this summer.