Chelsea’s recent struggles have drawn attention to a key issue: the team’s limited squad depth. After two less-than-ideal results, questions are being raised about the club’s ability to cope with a demanding schedule. While one of the results initially appeared respectable, cracks in Chelsea’s roster have become apparent, with challenges for manager Enzo Maresca emerging as a consequence.
Maresca’s management during a congested fixture period has faced criticism, particularly his rotation choices and minimal use of substitutions. While some of these decisions can be adjusted, the underlying problem lies in the squad’s depth. Despite a seemingly large roster, Maresca has consistently leaned on a core group of around 14 players. Injuries to key personnel have further exacerbated the strain, leaving Chelsea vulnerable.
With the January transfer window just weeks away, the club has an opportunity to address these concerns and reduce the workload on its primary players. Below are key transfer updates and strategies Chelsea might employ to reinforce its squad.
Randal Kolo Muani a Target for Chelsea
Reports suggest Chelsea is weighing up a move for Paris Saint-Germain forward Randal Kolo Muani during the January window. According to Foot Mercato, the 26-year-old striker is on Chelsea’s radar as a potential mid-season reinforcement for their attack.
Kolo Muani, who joined PSG from Eintracht Frankfurt for over £80 million, has struggled to make an impact. Last season, he managed just six Ligue 1 goals, and this term, he has only started two league matches under PSG manager Luis Enrique. Despite his current struggles, clubs such as Monaco, RB Leipzig, Manchester United, and Juventus are monitoring him. However, PSG is reportedly only interested in a loan move with a mandatory purchase clause.
Chelsea’s interest hinges on avoiding any obligation to buy, as the club’s immediate needs may not align with Kolo Muani’s profile. While he offers versatility in attack, Chelsea is thought to prefer a more physical, target-man type forward, similar to Olivier Giroud. The summer transfer market might present better long-term options, with players like Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyökeres being mentioned as potential targets.
A wildcard option involves Christopher Nkunku, who is reportedly dissatisfied with his current playing time. While a swap deal involving Nkunku and Kolo Muani could theoretically be explored, executing such a complex move in January seems unlikely.
Loan Recalls as Midfield Solutions
Chelsea’s midfield injuries might force the club to consider recalling loanees Andrey Santos and Lesley Ugochukwu. Both players have been performing well on loan, with Santos excelling at RC Strasbourg and Ugochukwu gaining valuable minutes at Southampton.
Santos has been one of Chelsea’s standout loanees this season and could provide immediate reinforcement to the midfield, especially with Romeo Lavia sidelined by recurring injuries. However, recalling him mid-season might disrupt his development in France. Ugochukwu, still in the early stages of his development, could either return to Chelsea or be redirected to Strasbourg for a more structured environment.
Additionally, Chelsea may offload some midfielders like Carney Chukwuemeka and Cesare Casadei, potentially freeing up space for Santos or Ugochukwu in the squad.
Crucial Decisions Ahead
As injuries continue to affect key players and the transfer window approaches, Chelsea faces critical choices. Whether the club opts to pursue external signings like Kolo Muani or relies on its young talent, resolving its depth issues is essential for maintaining competitiveness in the second half of the season.
The next few weeks will be pivotal as Chelsea navigates these challenges and aims to build a stronger, more resilient squad for the future.