Chelsea manager Antonio Conte doesn’t rule out the possibility of new arrivals at Stamford bridge when the transfer window opens next month. The Blues had spent over £120 million in the summer by bringing in N'Golo Kante, Michy Batshuayi, Marcos Alonso and David Luiz. And the west London outfit might continue their spending spree in January. With Brazilian midfielder Oscar moving to Chinese Super League side Shanghai SIPG for £60 million, Chelsea would possibly try to sign a replacement for the 25-year-old.
Conte is realistic of the fact that having strength in depth in the squad is key to securing the league title and the former Juventus boss suggested the five-time league champions might bolster their ranks during January.
“We must be very pleased for the achievement we have reached now, but it is logical that I look with my club for a solution to arrive in a good position at the end of the season," Conte said. “I do not know what will happen in January but in this situation, it is important to talk with my club. We have a fantastic relationship. I have my idea, but I prefer to discuss this with the club.”
A few big names have been linked with a switch to Stamford Bridge including the likes of Marco Verratti and James Rodriguez. The Blues are rumoured to be plotting a £30 million for PSG’ s number six as Conte is an admirer of the 24-year-old. However, it would be tough for Chelsea to lure away the Italian and they will certainly have to fork out more than £30 million as Verratti’ s current deal with PSG expires only in 2021.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid‘s James Rodriguez has hinted he would leave the Santiago Bernabeu next month and Chelsea are one of the clubs pursuing the signature of the Columbian international.
January might prove to be an even busy month for Conte, whose side have won 11 consecutive league games and are currently 7 points clear at the top of the table. Despite his side’s sumptuous form, Conte insists that they are aspects of the game where Chelsea needs to improve.
“I think we could have scored more goals against Crystal Palace on Saturday, but we only got one, and it was the same at Sunderland,” he added. "We can improve and be more clinical because when you have this type of game you are at risk until the end."
