Chelsea manager, Mauricio Pochettino, has acknowledged engaging in regular discussions with the club’s higher-ups regarding their plans for the upcoming January transfer window. Since taking charge at Stamford Bridge in the summer, Pochettino has orchestrated a significant overhaul of the squad, parting ways with over 20 players and bringing in promising talents like Romeo Lavia, Moises Caicedo, and Cole Palmer, with the latter proving to be a standout signing.
Pochettino, who has been transparent about his readiness to conduct transfer business, aims to strengthen his squad for the second half of the season. Despite a substantial financial outlay by the owner in the past 18 months, the Argentine manager remains confident that necessary funds will be provided to shape the team according to his vision. The club’s track record of lucrative player sales, amassing £706 million in profits, offers financial flexibility without fear of Financial Fair Play (FFP) repercussions.
While Pochettino has primarily focused on integrating young talents aligned with Todd Boehly’s youth project, he is now keen to broaden his scope by considering players with more experience and knowledge, in addition to those who can contribute to the club’s long-term identity.
What Chelsea need in the January transfer window?
Since the takeover led by Todd Boehly’s Clearlake Capital in May, Chelsea have embarked on an unprecedented spending spree, exceeding £1 billion on more than 30 new players in the last three transfer windows. Notable departures include Kai Havertz, Christian Pulisic, and Callum Hudson-Odoi, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang being released. On the incoming front, Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku were acquired for approximately £84 million.
Reports from Fichajes suggest that Mauricio Pochettino’s Chelsea is looking to bolster their offensive options in the upcoming January transfer window. The team has faced challenges in scoring an adequate number of goals during the 2023-24 Premier League season, partly attributed to a knee injury suffered by Christopher Nkunku.
Transfer rumours that might come true in January for Chelsea
Jonathan David & Antonio Nusa
Reports indicate that Chelsea have identified LOSC Lille’s standout Jonathan David and Club Brugge’s talented Antonio Nusa as their top priorities for the upcoming winter transfer window. The Blues, who have struggled with just five goals in their first four games, are keen on securing the services of Jonathan David. Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly a big admirer of the 23-year-old Canadian, who impressively netted 26 goals in 40 appearances during the 2022-23 season.
Known for his clinical finishing with his right foot, David is seen as a valuable rotational option alongside summer signing Nicolas Jackson. His prolific goal-scoring record of 61 goals and 10 assists in 142 appearances for LOSC Lille makes him an appealing target for Chelsea as they seek to strengthen their attacking options.
In addition to their pursuit of Jonathan David, Chelsea are reportedly eyeing the acquisition of Antonio Nusa from Club Brugge during the January 2024 transfer window. The Blues are eager to secure the services of the speedy winger, aligning with their recruitment strategy that emphasizes adding promising teenagers to their squad.
At just 18 years old, Nusa has emerged as one of the top prospects in Europe since making his debut in October 2021. The Norwegian talent has showcased his skills by contributing four goals and three assists in 1,632 minutes spread across 46 matches for Club Brugge. Chelsea sees Nusa as a promising addition to their squad, consistent with their focus on nurturing young talents.
Pape Daouda Diong
Chelsea have reportedly reached a preliminary agreement to secure the signing of 17-year-old Darou Salam midfielder Pape Daouda Diong, according to information obtained by 90min. Diong, a commanding presence in the defensive midfield position, garnered attention for his impressive performances at the U-17 World Cup in November. Notably, he played a key role in securing a victory over eventual semi-finalists Argentina.
Further, Diong was observed in the stands during Chelsea’s Carabao Cup triumph over Newcastle United. He was accompanied by Kendry Paez, a future addition to the Blues, who was making his inaugural visit to Stamford Bridge before his anticipated £17.5 million switch in 2025. Chelsea’s move to secure the promising talent of Pape Daouda Diong reflects their commitment to nurturing young players with potential.
Ivan Toney
Brentford director Lee Dykes has openly acknowledged that Ivan Toney might be sold in the near future if the club receives an irresistible bid. Toney, set to return from a gambling ban on January 16, is entering the last 18 months of his contract and has become a potential winter target for both Arsenal and Chelsea. The admission from Dykes suggests that Brentford is open to considering substantial offers for Toney, recognizing the interest from top clubs in the Premier League.
Also Read: Arsenal Emerges as Front-Runner in £60 Million Pursuit of Striking Sensation Ivan Toney
Players who could leave Chelsea in January transfer window
Chelsea Football Club are reportedly prepared to part ways with five players when the January 2024 transfer window opens, with the intention of balancing their financial books to make room for a forward player, a position identified as a missing link in the squad this season. According to Mirror Football, Trevaoh Chalobah, Ian Masten, and Noni Madueke are among the players likely to be allowed to leave Stamford Bridge.
Chalobah, who has been sidelined by injury for the entire season, has not featured in any games under Mauricio Pochettino’s management. Masten, despite gaining some minutes, has struggled to secure a spot in the team and is reportedly attracting interest from Borussia Dortmund. Madueke, who has slipped down the pecking order, has not started a Premier League game since the 2-0 defeat against Brentford in October.
In addition to these three, Marc Cucurella and Armando Broja are mentioned as potential departures as Chelsea aims to address their financial situation and make strategic adjustments to the squad during the transfer window.