Chelsea transfer latest: Raheem Sterling, Axel Disasi and more | OneFootball

Chelsea Approach January with Long Term Focus

Stamford Bridge has been no stranger to January drama in recent years. In January 2023 alone, Chelsea spent more than £250million on six players, including Enzo Fernandez. Since then, the winter windows have been notably subdued, and that pattern looks set to continue.

According to The Athletic, Chelsea are not planning to be busy. The emphasis is firmly on preparation for the summer rather than reaction in January. Sources, speaking under the publication’s sourcing guidelines, suggest that while Chelsea will remain alert, significant first team additions are unlikely.

This restraint reflects a club trying to bring order to a previously chaotic cycle. The squad is large, expensive, and still developing under Enzo Maresca. The strategy now is clarity, not constant churn.

Recruitment Model and Maresca’s Role

Chelsea’s transfer strategy does not revolve around managerial wish lists. As The Athletic explain, Maresca is consulted, valued, and involved, but the sporting leadership team set direction. That dynamic was evident last summer when Levi Colwill suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

Maresca requested another centre back. He was told the squad had enough depth to cope. It was a reminder that Chelsea’s hierarchy prioritise long term squad planning over immediate fixes.

That approach continues into January. Chelsea may still sign young players for the future, either leaving them at their current clubs or loaning them elsewhere. This pathway driven model has become standard practice under BlueCo ownership.

Targets, Monitoring and Midfield Priority

Chelsea continue to scout widely. The Athletic report interest in Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet and Saint Etienne forward Djylian N’Guessan, although interest has gone no further than monitoring. Some players under consideration are also viewed with sister club Strasbourg in mind.

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Certain rumours can be dismissed outright. A return for Thiago Silva was never on the agenda, and Chelsea have no shortage of centre backs.

The most significant line from The Athletic concerns midfield planning. “In terms of the positions they are concentrating on for the first team in the summer, central midfield has become a priority due to Romeo Lavia’s injury issues. The Belgium international has made just 30 appearances since joining from Southampton for £50million in August 2023.” That sentence neatly summarises Chelsea’s concern.

Chelsea also made an initial enquiry over Antoine Semenyo but chose not to pursue a deal, reinforcing the sense of discipline around January spending.

Sales, Loans and Financial Controls

Outgoings remain the more pressing challenge. Chelsea are keen to resolve the futures of Axel Disasi and Raheem Sterling, both excluded from the senior squad. A Ligue 1 club has enquired about Disasi, but Chelsea would prefer a domestic loan or permanent move.

Sterling’s situation is more complex. His £300,000 a week contract, family ties to London, and preference for a permanent move complicate any exit.

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Loan space is limited. Chelsea have already filled their six international loan slots, ruling out certain options. Domestic loans are being explored for Deivid Washington, while Marc Guiu is expected to stay despite limited minutes.

Financially, Chelsea are comfortable. PSR is not a concern, and while UEFA have issued fines linked to squad cost rules, Chelsea remain relaxed about compliance. The bulk of funds are being reserved for the summer.

The Athletic conclude that Chelsea should still meet their objectives without January signings. With Colwill absent and Lavia struggling for fitness, the squad will be tested, but the foundations are already in place.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Chelsea supporters, this report feels sensible, even if it lacks excitement. Fans have grown weary of frantic January windows that promise solutions but deliver disruption. A quieter approach suggests lessons have been learned.

There will be frustration around Lavia. Supporters believed he would become the heartbeat of midfield, and seeing him limited to 30 appearances since his arrival hurts. Knowing that central midfield is now a summer priority at least offers reassurance.

The Sterling situation will divide opinion. Many fans feel his time has passed, but the reality of his contract and circumstances means patience is required. Disasi’s exclusion also raises questions about squad management, yet clearing space is essential.

Most supporters will welcome the idea that Chelsea do not need to sell to buy, but also understand that with such a large squad, exits are inevitable. The focus on long term planning, rather than quick fixes, aligns with a desire for stability.

If Chelsea reach the latter stages of cups and secure Champions League qualification with this group, January restraint will feel justified. Sometimes progress looks like standing still, while quietly preparing for the next decisive move.