The summer transfer window has finally closed, with Chelsea securing a late loan deal for Atletico Madrid's Saul Niguez in the final minutes before Tuesday's 11pm deadline.
The Spaniard will now join up with Thomas Tuchel's squad alongside Romelu Lukaku, who was the club's other major addition, although a move for Sevilla's Jules Kounde failed to materialise.
Saul could be deemed as a perfect loan signing based on his skill set, as he's proved to be one of the most versatile players around over the past few years under Diego Simeone.
The 26 year-old is primarily a central midfield player but dating back to 2018, he's also spent time as a centre-back, left-back, wide midfielder and a wing-back.
Saul is very much in the mould of a jack of all trades which makes him ideal for a short-term loan; he's well-rounded with few overwhelming weaknesses attached to his game.
His transfer will undoubtedly please Tuchel, who has favoured a back three system since his appointment at Stamford Bridge around one year ago and has relied upon flexibility.
The likes of Cesar Azpilicueta, Reece James, Mason Mount and Kai Havertz are all capable of performing in a variety of roles within the go-to system, and the same can be said for Saul.
He'll add depth to a midfield department that is fairly light in comparison to other areas of the squad, while also offering an option as a wing-back if needed.
Moreover, given Kurt Zouma's sale to West Ham United combined with the failed transfer of Kounde, perhaps Saul could be an emergency wide centre-back solution for Tuchel if a number of his players suffer from injuries.
An option to buy has been attached to the loan deal which could be exercised next summer for around £30million but in the meantime, Saul will look to impress by fulfilling any role that he's presented with.
As Chelsea chase down the Premier League title, they have guarded against potential setbacks within the team by adding a player who can essentially do a job anywhere.
