Chelsea are being tipped to make a couple of late moves in the January transfer market to support their new manager, Liam Rosenior. According to former Blues defender Glen Johnson, the club's hierarchy is prepared to sanction 'sensible' deals for one or two players before the deadline on February 2.
Rosenior to Get Modest Backing in First Window
Johnson, speaking to Metro on behalf of WDW Bingo, suggested that while Chelsea have a history of backing their managers, Rosenior will not be handed a blank cheque immediately. The new boss succeeded Enzo Maresca, who left Stamford Bridge on New Year's Day, and has overseen wins against Charlton and Brentford since taking charge.
"I think Chelsea will back Liam Rosenior in the transfer window as long as it's a sensible transfer," Johnson stated. "But they aren't going to give him a war chest in his first transfer window, they'll want to see what he brings first. I think they'll make one or two signings this month just to give Liam some of his own players."
Despite the potential for new arrivals, Johnson emphasised that Rosenior inherits a talented squad. He described Chelsea as having "one of the strongest squads in the Premier League," with a good blend of experience and youth. The immediate task for the manager is to restore consistency and winning form.
Defensive Target and Departure Dilemmas
One player strongly linked with a move to West London is Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet. Reports indicate that Chelsea have agreed personal terms with the highly-rated defender, who is also on Arsenal's radar. However, negotiations with Rennes are ongoing, with the French club holding out for around £56 million, while Chelsea have so far been reluctant to exceed £50 million.
On the outgoing side, Chelsea have already sent loanee Facundo Buonanotte back to Brighton. The club is also reportedly open to offers for Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi, though finding suitors has proven difficult. Discussing Sterling's future, Johnson expressed uncertainty but hope that the winger would remain in the Premier League.
"I think it would be a shame if he moved abroad to the MLS or Saudi Arabia right now," Johnson said. "I would love to see him do a few more years in the Premier League before winding down his career."
Focus Returns to the Pitch
Amid the transfer speculation, Chelsea's immediate focus is on crucial fixtures. The team faces a Champions League clash against Pafos before a Premier League London derby against Crystal Palace at the weekend. Any new signings before the deadline would be considered a bonus for Rosenior as he looks to cement his project at Stamford Bridge and push the club, currently sixth in the table, up the standings.
