“More likely…” – Chelsea’s January transfer plans already in place for emergency situation | OneFootball

Chelsea have gone into this season with a really nice squad. We’re sure the Blues are pretty happy with what they’ve put together for Enzo Maresca to work with.

No squad is perfect though, and injuries will always disrupt best laid plans.

Defender questions already have an answer

Aaron Anselmino signs for Borussia Dortmund on loan.

The hole in the group right now is at centre back, after Levi Colwill, undisputed first choice, was ruled out for the whole season with an ACL injury. There are more than enough bodies to cover, but when two of those bodies are the perma-crocked Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile, you can’t be too sure.

The Athletic’s piece summarising our window makes it clear that some consideration was given to signing a new player in that position – we already knew that given Enzo Maresca’s comments to that effect.

But they add an interesting detail about why it didn’t happen, and how it could affect Chelsea in the future.

Chelsea look ahead to January and player development

Simon Johnson’s piece says that Chelsea are “reluctant to block the pathways of Mamadou Sarr (on loan at Strasbourg) and Aaron Anselmino (on loan at Borussia Dortmund).”

If we lose another defender or we’re struggling mid season, the speculation is that “it is more likely one of them will be recalled rather than a new addition be added.”

That makes sense, especially given the promising star both of them have made to the season.

By January both will have an important chunk of top flight experience under their bely and will be that much more ready to play for Chelsea.

We can only assume the deals with Strasbourg and Dortmund have made allowances for a potential recall in January. It’s a bit of a gamble to have 6 months without them, but it’s a rich payoff.