Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has work to do in the weeks ahead as signings are needed to spark a revival in the Premier League title hunt.
Manchester City hold a significant advantage at the top of the table, which may see Chelsea's attention shift towards the three cup competitions they remain in the running for.
2022 is shaping up to a be a big year defensively for the Blues, with a wealth of potential exits on a free transfer, so it's no surprise to see the back-line attract the majority of rumours so far.
However, it's not all good news as El Nacional via TeamTalk states Liverpool have joined the running for highly-rated Sevilla defender Jules Kounde.
While Chelsea hold long-term interest in the Frenchman, with reports saying they'll look to push through a move at the end of the season, but Liverpool may jump to the front of the queue.
It's stated that Jurgen Klopp's side are ready to activate the defender's lofty £75m release clause this month in order to beat Chelsea to the punch.
Elsewhere, the Mail states Chelsea have opened talks with Lyon regarding an early termination of Emerson Palmieri's loan deal.
Tuchel is looking to land a left-back this month following Ben Chilwell's injury and recalling Emerson is the ideal move in the mid-season window.
Finally, Foot Mercato states Paris Saint-Germain have offered a staggering contract for Antonio Rudiger, ahead of the expiration of his deal with Chelsea this summer.
PSG are among a host of clubs eyeing a move for the German defender but it's reported that his preference is a move to Real Madrid.
