Chelsea are remaining open to even more deals in the January window with Graham Potter still keen to add reinforcements to his squad where he can. Speaking ahead of the trip to Liverpool, Potter admitted that the signings made may not have been first choice, adding to some confusion over plans for future.
With three new attackers added the Blues are still yet to bolster their midfield with a senior player despite it arguably being the position they need to improve the most. “I’ve not complaints about the squad,” Potter said. “I’ve said before that the January window is very complex.
“You might want A, B, and C but maybe they are not available in terms of positional need. But at the same time, you’re always looking to strengthen the team. We’ve done that and it’s exciting the players we have.”
With six new players through the door already there is certainly optimism when it comes to the frontline. Benoit Badiashile’s promising debut against Crystal Palace was cause for optimism too, but they still lack an energetic full-back in the expense of Reece James.
The 23-year-old has missed most of this season and his side have won just two of the matches in the league without him present. Cesar Azpilicueta has been the go-to answer but he no longer offers speed or attacking play in the opposition half. He is also less reliable at the back.
James has made progress ahead of a well-awaited return to competitive action though, training with the squad. He has also sent out a message on Instagram during his rehab, saying: “grind szn [season] but never measure your progress using someone else’s ruler.”
Take from that what you will; James is a consistent poster of cryptic messages. He may well find himself with added competition for his position in the team, too. French publication L’Equipe write that Malo Gusto is a player the Blues are keen to sign this window.
The 19-year-old is one of the most promising players in his position and is seen alongside Sporting’s Pedro Porro to be one of the best options this window. He would, however, cost around £40million. Porro, 23, is available for £39million due to his release clause.
With under two weeks left and right-back now alongside midfield as the position of most need, Gusto may be a player the Blues try to test the waters with. Lyon would rather keep their prize asset until the summer when a bidding war involving Tottenham and Manchester City could take place but Chelsea have already shown there determination to make things happen quickly.
