The three players Chelsea must sign before Transfer Deadline Day

Karan Tejwani

• 22 Aug 2022 08:55 BST
• 3 min read

Chelsea have had an underwhelming start to the season, picking up just one win – which was in the opening weekend against Everton – before a draw and loss against Tottenham and Leeds United.

The Blues have been the biggest spenders across any league in Europe in this summer’s transfer window, bringing in players like Raheem Sterling, Kalidou Koulibaly and Marc Cucurella, and they’re still in the market for more.

The loss to Leeds United over the weekend exposed some more problems Chelsea face, as their build-up was lacking and they could’ve done with a more clinical forward.

Thomas Tuchel’s side have been in negotiations for several players, and could have a big end to the transfer window as they wish to bolster their squad.

Which players must Chelsea sign before deadline day?

Wesley Fofana

Chelsea have been in contact with Leicester City over Fofana’s transfer for the last few weeks, but haven’t been able to strike a deal with the Foxes.

Leicester want a record fee for the player, making him the most expensive defender in the history of the game, but Fofana himself feels that is an excessive demand.

If the Blues are to improve defensively, bringing in a new defender is key, allowing him to pair with Thiago Silva and Koulibaly, and improving their fortunes.

Frenkie de Jong

Rumours around De Jong’s future have rambled on all summer, with Manchester United seemingly his most likely destination before Chelsea became an option.

The Red Devils agreed a fee with Barcelona back in July – that has now expired – but a deal hasn’t been completed due to the situation around the Dutchman’s deferred wages.

Chelseea have seen the situation and believe they can swoop in, and with the offer of Champions League football, they could well bring De Jong to London.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

Chelsea need a new forward to fix their attacking issues having let go of Romelu Lukaku and Timo Werner over the summer, leaving them short up in front.

Aubameyang has a good rapport with Tuchel having worked with him – and been successful together – at Borussia Dortmund, and both player and coach are open to reuiniting.

This may be a good short-term option to get Chelsea through to the next transfer window, where they could be able to sign another of their targets.