While the European transfer window has closed, it’s not quite full-time for Premier League clubs attempting to add reinforcements.
There’s still more than a week to conduct dealings with clubs in the EFL, helping teams in the top flight plug any gaps they might have in their squad.
Chelsea have been among the biggest spenders this summer, adding reinforcements in a number of positions, but there might be room for one more new face.
We have identified some Championship players who could be solid additions to the Blues’ squad as Frank Lampard’s side continues to fight on multiple fronts.
Lloyd Kelly
With question marks over the future of both Marcos Alonso and Emerson, Chelsea could soon have space for a new left-back in their squad.
Bournemouth’s Kelly has the added bonus of being able to fill in at centre-back, having done so for the Cherries at the end of last season, potentially allowing Chelsea to allow another of their myriad central defenders to pick up loan experience.
The England under-21 international would also be a potential long-term presence on the home grown list, while his experience in last season’s relegation battle ought to be character-building.
Philip Billing
Another member of the Bournemouth side to drop out of the Premier League last season, Billing was reportedly the subject of interest from top-flight sides earlier in the summer but the trail has since gone cold.
The Dane is another with top-flight experience, and could be an alternative and more physical presence in front of the back four.
While two relegations may sound alarm bells, he’s a player who has, for the most part, held his own in the Premier League.
Tom Dele-Bashiru
Watford’s relegation and managerial change has seen the Hornets raise funds through the sale of a number of players, albeit some of those to depart have been more senior players on higher wages.
This has provided an opportunity for highly-rated youngster Dele-Bashiru, who came through Manchester City’s academy and played once for City in the EFL Cup before moving south.
Could Chelsea take advantage of the uncertainty around Vicarage Road and pick up a player who has been seen as a future Premier League star?
Han-Noah Massengo
Another hugely talented young midfielder, Massengo was a smart pick-up from Bristol City after making his AS Monaco debut under Thierry Henry.
Chelsea were linked with the French teenager earlier this year, with reports suggesting the Blues were one of a number of clubs monitoring his progress at Ashton Gate.
Massengo played 25 league games last season, catching the eye almost immediately, and if he continues along the same path it’s unlikely he’ll continue to be as affordable as he is right now.
Todd Cantwell
When Norwich were relegated to the Championship, Cantwell was one of the players considered most likely to be in high demand.
However, while his former team-mates Ben Godfrey and Jamal Lewis have made immediate returns to the Premier League, the 22-year-old is still at Carrow Road.
The England under-21 international made one of his first big statements last season by scoring against Chelsea, so Lampard and his team should know all about him.
Said Benrahma
Benrahma was one of the Championship’s best players last season, and showed in Brentford’s EFL Cup win over Fulham that he’s still got it.
Chelsea were linked with the Algerian earlier in the window, though the arrival of Kai Havertz seemed to cause that particular speculation to die down.
Still, even if he doesn’t end up moving to Stamford Bridge, Benrahma would surely improve plenty of Premier League teams.
