Five Players Who Could Join Chelsea in January

Since the takeover by Todd Boehly and Clearlake in 2022, Chelsea has become synonymous with significant spending in the transfer market, investing over €1.4 billion in new players. This influx of talent has led to periods of upheaval and adjustment, particularly with the managerial change from Mauricio Pochettino to Enzo Maresca.

Despite the heavy investment, Chelsea finds themselves in a position where further reinforcements could be beneficial as they approach the January transfer window. While the team is competing at the top end of the Premier League table, close behind leaders Liverpool, Maresca may seek to fine-tune his squad to solidify their title credentials. FootballTransfers has identified five potential players who could make the move to Stamford Bridge in January.

Tomas Araujo:

Chelsea’s January strategy is likely to involve balancing incomings with outgoings. With defenders like Ben Chilwell, Benoit Badiashile, and Axel Disasi potentially on the fringes of Maresca’s squad and candidates to leave, the need for defensive cover becomes apparent. Ongoing fitness concerns surrounding Wesley Fofana further emphasize the need for defensive reinforcement.

Benfica’s Tomas Araujo has emerged as a potential target. The 22-year-old has broken into Benfica’s first team and has been scouted by Chelsea for several years. This familiarity could prompt the Blues to make a move in January, potentially in a big-money deal. Araujo’s profile as a young, promising center-back fits the profile of recent Chelsea signings.

Victor Osimhen:

Despite Nicolas Jackson’s promising start to the season, with nine goals in 15 games, there are lingering questions about Chelsea’s overall firepower. With Christopher Nkunku potentially seeking a move away from the club, the need for another attacking option becomes a priority.

Victor Osimhen’s name has once again surfaced in connection with Chelsea. The Napoli striker has been a long-term target for the Blues. Reports suggest that the on-loan Galatasaray striker (referring to a previous loan, as Osimhen is currently at Napoli) might be willing to lower his demands to facilitate a permanent exit from Napoli, potentially opening the door for Chelsea to finally secure his signature.

Jonathan David:

Osimhen’s potential transfer fee could prove prohibitive for Chelsea in January. Furthermore, signing Osimhen might hinder Jackson’s development by limiting his playing time. Therefore, Chelsea could explore more cost-effective options who still offer proven goal-scoring ability.

Lille’s Jonathan David fits this profile. With his contract expiring in 2025, Lille may be open to a cut-price sale in January. The Canadian striker has been in excellent form, scoring 11 goals in 15 Ligue 1 games this season, making him an attractive target for several clubs.

Caoimhin Kelleher:

Despite Chelsea’s impressive defensive performances this season, goalkeeper Robert Sanchez has been prone to errors, with only one player committing more mistakes leading directly to a goal. Neither Sanchez nor backup keeper Filip Jorgensen, a €24.5 million summer signing, has fully convinced Maresca of their long-term suitability as Chelsea’s number one.

Caoimhin Kelleher, currently at Liverpool, is expected to seek a move in 2025 due to his inability to displace Alisson Becker as the first-choice goalkeeper. The Irish international has been linked with Chelsea, although the Blues would likely need to sell either Sanchez or Jorgensen before pursuing another goalkeeper.

Vitor Reis:

Chelsea has shown a clear strategy of targeting talented South American teenagers, having recently signed players like Kendry Paez, Willian Estevao, and Aaron Anselmino. This strategy could continue with a move for Palmeiras defender Vitor Reis.

The 18-year-old has already attracted bids exceeding €20 million, highlighting his potential. However, Chelsea will face stiff competition from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain in the race for his signature. Reis has a reported €100 million release clause, which could make a January move challenging.

These five players represent a range of potential signings for Chelsea in January, addressing different areas of the squad. Whether any of these moves materialize remains to be seen, but they provide insight into the club’s potential transfer strategy.