As the January transfer window approaches, speculation is mounting over how Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca could reinforce his squad. The Blues, currently level on points with Liverpool in fifth, are seven points behind Saturday's opponents Aston Villa after 17 games.
Defensive Reinforcements: A New-Look Backline
Between the posts, Robert Sanchez is expected to retain his position as first-choice goalkeeper, with Filip Jorgensen providing cover. The defence, however, could see significant changes if rumours materialise.
At right-back, the fit-again Reece James offers a major boost, with Malo Gusto as an alternative. On the opposite flank, the steady Marc Cucurella is likely to continue.
The centre of defence is where the most intriguing links have emerged. Chelsea are reportedly interested in Bayern Munich's Dayot Upamecano, according to the Metro. The 27-year-old French defender has been a regular for the Bundesliga giants since his 2021 move from RB Leipzig.
Furthermore, a return to Stamford Bridge for Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi is a strong possibility. The England international's contract expires in June 2026, and TEAMtalk reports that the Blues face competition from Liverpool and Manchester City for his signature.
Midfield Consistency and Attacking Firepower
In midfield, the established pairing of Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez is set to remain, with Reece James, Andrey Santos, and the injured Romeo Lavia as other options.
The attack, however, could be transformed. The return to fitness of Cole Palmer is a welcome boost for Maresca. He could be joined by new faces, with Chelsea linked to several high-profile forwards.
Fichajes reports that RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, valued at around £87 million, is on Chelsea's radar. He would compete with the likes of Jamie Gittens and Pedro Neto.
In a major move, Sky Sports suggests Chelsea have enquired about AFC Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo, who has a £65 million release clause. Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United are also said to be admirers.
To lead the line, Palmeiras' Vitor Roque is a name of interest according to Sky Sports Switzerland, providing competition for Joao Pedro and Liam Delap.
The Potential Dream Lineup
If all these rumoured deals were to be completed, Enzo Maresca could field a formidable new starting eleven in the second half of the season. The speculated lineup would be a blend of current stars and major new investments.
Chelsea's rumoured XI in full: Sanchez; James, Upamecano, Guehi, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Diomande, Palmer, Semenyo; Roque.
This ambitious recruitment drive would signal a clear intent from Chelsea's owners to close the gap on the Premier League's top four. The success of such a overhaul would depend on how quickly the new signings could adapt to Maresca's system and the intensity of English football.
