5 players Chelsea could have signed instead of Saul Niguez

#3 Yves Bissouma | Brighton & Hove Albion

Brighton & Hove Albion v Manchester City - Premier League

Yves Bissouma has quickly developed into one of the best midfielders in the Premier League.

An integral part of the Brighton squad, Bissouma has thrived in central midfield for the Seagulls under Graham Potter. Known for his accurate tackles and his knack for being in the right place at the right time, Bissouma has become quite the coveted commodity in the Premier League.

Bissouma's stats are world-class: The Malian topped the charts for tackles and interceptions last season. Several clubs showed interest in signing him, but a move did not go through.

Still only 25, he certainly has a very high ceiling. Chelsea will consider themselves lucky if they manage to beat the competition and tie the Malian down to a long-term deal.

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#2 Declan Rice | West Ham United

Southampton v West Ham United - Premier League

Chelsea have been linked with Declan Rice for quite a while now.

The youngster was famously a part of Chelsea's academy for a long time, before making his professional debut with West Ham in 2015. In the six years since, Rice has emerged as one of the best midfielders in the league.

Known for his relentless pressing and ball-playing abilities, Rice has built quite a reputation for himself in England. His performances even caught the eye of Gareth Southgate, who called him up to the English national team in 2019.

Rice was a regular in England's UEFA Euro 2020 campaign, where they ultimately finished runners-up. Chelsea reignited their interest in the Englishman this summer but failed to work out a suitable deal for both parties.

With Rice staying at West Ham for at least another few months, there is no doubt Chelsea will try once again to sign their target.

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#1 Eduardo Camavinga | Real Madrid

Real Madrid v FC Sheriff: Group D - UEFA Champions League

Eduardo Camavinga was one of the most sought-after players during the summer window.

Part of a formidable Rennes side, Camavinga has caught the eye of many over the past couple of seasons. The French youngster spent two years with Rennes in Ligue 1 before ultimately signing for Spanish giants Real Madrid on deadline day.

Widely renowned as one of the best young midfielders in the world, Real Madrid faced stiff competition from the likes of Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain. At one point, it seemed almost certain that Camavinga would move to PSG, but a move ultimately fell through.

Camavinga has shown his maturity and class at the tender age of 18. Being good enough to attract Real Madrid's attention says a lot, costing Los Blancos a reported €31 million.

The Frenchman has been touted as one for the future. Highly rated by players and coaches alike, Camavinga is another exciting midfielder Chelsea could have snapped up instead of Saul.

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