The 3 transfers that Chelsea should target to improve one position next summer
Chelsea have enjoyed a mixed start to life in the Premier League under Xabi Alonso, producing some encouraging performances alongside a few disappointing results.
The attack showed plenty of promise in the early stages, while the midfield has started to find its rhythm more recently. There have also been some positive signs in defence, but the centre-back positions remain a concern.
The Blues need more consistency and stronger individual performances from that area of the pitch, as none of the options have truly established themselves as an outstanding presence at the back. Or, just improvement overall with Wesley Fofana heading for the exit door.
So, who should Chelsea look at signing come January or next summer? We give you three targets that can improve the squad at Stamford Bridge
Ilya Zabarnyi
The Ukrainian is comfortable on the right side of a back three or in a flat back four, with his biggest strength perhaps being his defensive ability. He is quick, excellent in duels and can be like a brick wall for opposition attackers, making him extremely difficult to get past.
Having watched him at Bournemouth, I believe he is a Champions League-level defender who can make the difference in tight games and help his team win points. We are now seeing those qualities at Paris Saint-Germain, where his defensive reliability has added another layer of security to their back line. He is the type of player who can help turn a narrow lead into a clean sheet and, ultimately, three points.
Zabarnyi was reportedly offered to Chelsea in the summer, giving Xabi Alonso an opportunity to bring him to Stamford Bridge. That opportunity has now passed, with Liverpool and other clubs continuing to show interest. However, Marquinhos cannot play forever, and the Ukrainian could eventually prove to be an ideal successor to the two-time Champions League-winning captain.
Gonçalo Inácio
The Portuguese defender fits Chelsea's recruitment model of signing young players with the potential to develop into world-class talent. At 25, Gonçalo Inácio already has the experience and quality to make an immediate impact in the Premier League, while still having room to improve further.
He is comfortable playing on the left side of a back three or in a traditional back four, offering Alonso another option across different defensive systems. That versatility was why Barcelona and Real Madrid were sniffing around in the summer, with Liverpool also linked.
His composure in possession, ability to play progressive passes and strength in one-on-one situations make him an attractive option. Inácio could provide the balance Chelsea need at the back, combining defensive reliability with the ability to help build attacks from deep.
Jarrad Branthwaite
Jarrad Branthwaite could be an excellent addition to Chelsea's defence, bringing a combination of physical strength, composure and Premier League experience. The Everton centre-back is strong in the air, comfortable defending one-on-one and capable of carrying the ball forward from the back.
Injury concerns have consistently surrounded him, so the emergence of these links came as something of a surprise.
However, his left-footed profile would also provide valuable balance alongside Chelsea's existing defensive options. At 24, he has plenty of room to develop further and could become a long-term cornerstone of Xabi Alonso's back line, however will prove to be the most costly of the three options.
