Chelsea’s 2025 January Transfer Wishlist: Key Areas to Strengthen

Chelsea enters the January transfer window sitting second in the Premier League, a testament to the remarkable progress under Enzo Maresca. While the Blues have defied expectations this season, the manager has emphasized that his young squad still needs reinforcement to handle the pressures of competing on multiple fronts.

Here’s a detailed look at Chelsea’s key transfer priorities, potential targets, and the players who could be on their way out in January.

1. Central Midfield: Adding Depth to a Star-Studded Core

The Issue

Chelsea boasts one of the strongest midfield duos in the Premier League with Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo, supported by the talented Romeo Lavia. However, beyond these three, depth is lacking. With a congested fixture schedule ahead, relying on this trio could be a risky proposition.

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, signed for £30 million in the summer, has struggled to make an impact and seems destined for an exit. Chelsea needs a reliable backup who can step up in crucial moments without disrupting the balance of the squad.

Potential Targets

1. Dario Essugo (Sporting CP):
   • A young, promising talent with a defensive mindset.
   • Fits Chelsea’s focus on youth development.
2. Youssouf Fofana (AC Milan):
   • Experienced and versatile, capable of covering multiple midfield roles.
3. Pablo Barrios (Atletico Madrid):
   • A dynamic midfielder with technical prowess and energy.
4. Returning Loan Options:
   • Andrey Santos: Shining at Strasbourg and could provide immediate depth.
   • Lesley Ugochukwu: Likely to have his Southampton loan terminated for lack of minutes.

2. Left Wing: Navigating the Mudryk Suspension

The Issue

The unexpected suspension of Mykhailo Mudryk following a failed drugs test has left Chelsea scrambling for options on the left wing. While Jadon Sancho has been a reliable starter, Maresca doesn’t seem to trust Joao Felix or Christopher Nkunku in this role. Young Tyrique George has been promoted, but it’s unclear if he’s ready for regular first-team action.

Potential Targets

1. Nico Williams (Athletic Club):
   • A technically gifted winger with pace and creativity.
   • Likely expensive but a long-term solution.
2. Leroy Sane (Bayern Munich):
   • Approaching the end of his contract, making him a potential bargain.
3. Karim Adeyemi (Borussia Dortmund):
   • A versatile attacker who could fill in on the left and provide additional firepower.
4. Loan Options:
   • Marcus Rashford (Manchester United): Would require Chelsea to make Sancho’s loan permanent due to loan rules.

3. Outgoings: Trimming the Squad

Key Departures

1. Ben Chilwell:
   • The vice-captain has played just 45 minutes this season.
   • A move would benefit both the player and Chelsea’s wage bill.
2. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall:
   • Likely to leave in January after failing to break into the first team.
3. Carney Chukwuemeka:
   • Could be loaned out to gain valuable playing time.
4. Cesare Casadei:
   • Rumored to attract interest from Serie A, and Chelsea might consider offers.
5. Marc Guiu and Christopher Nkunku:
   • Both must decide whether they are content as squad players or seek moves elsewhere.

Strategic Considerations for January

Budget Management

Chelsea is unlikely to spend heavily in January, focusing instead on strategic signings and potential loan deals. The club must balance reinforcements with the need to offload fringe players to maintain squad harmony and comply with financial regulations.

Squad Balance

With the Conference League adding to their schedule, depth in midfield and attack will be crucial for Chelsea to maintain their momentum in the Premier League and Europe.

Conclusion

Chelsea’s 2025 January transfer window is an opportunity to address key vulnerabilities while maintaining the team’s upward trajectory. Reinforcing the midfield and left wing, while trimming the squad, will be vital to ensuring the Blues remain competitive in the title race and other competitions. With Enzo Maresca at the helm, smart acquisitions could propel Chelsea to their first Premier League title since 2017.

FAQs

1. Why is Chelsea targeting a central midfielder?
While Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, and Romeo Lavia form a strong core, Chelsea lacks depth beyond these three, especially with a busy schedule ahead.

2. How will Mudryk’s suspension impact Chelsea’s transfer plans?
Mudryk’s suspension has left Chelsea thin on the left wing, prompting them to explore potential reinforcements in January.

3. Who are Chelsea’s top targets for the left wing?
Nico Williams, Leroy Sane, and Karim Adeyemi are among the names linked to Chelsea as they look to strengthen their wide options.

4. Which players are likely to leave Chelsea in January?
Ben Chilwell, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Carney Chukwuemeka are among the players who could depart, either permanently or on loan.

5. Can Chelsea win the Premier League this season?
While Enzo Maresca remains cautious about title talk, Chelsea’s position in the table and potential January reinforcements make them strong contenders.