Chelsea FC: On the move?

Article by Lee Beevor

Whilst the squad is as yet unchanged, it is hard to imagine this will remain the case on February 1st. One feels that Jose Mourinho’s insistence he is satisfied with his existing firepower is merely a ruse to motivate, than a genuinely held opinion. Should the right striker be available, I am sure Chelsea will be at the head of the queue. However, this article is not to speculate about who may arrive at the club, but rather who may depart.

Defensively, there will in all probability, be no change. It looked likely Ryan Bertrand could be on his way, as his future appeared bleak under Mourinho. Whilst initially he spoke highly of training with the special one, this glowing view may have dimmed a little of late. It can hardly have been encouraging for Ryan that Cesar Azpilicueta was employed on the wrong side of the pitch in preference! They was and indeed still is, talk of a switch to Liverpool and it may be the positive comments of his abilities are designed to extract the highest price from any suitors.

Another strongly linked with a January transfer has been David Luiz. Many fans would be sad to see him go, as he has become something of a cult hero with his distinctive look and flamboyant play. I am not sure Mourinho knows quite what to do with him at the moment, but I get the feeling his versatility will ensure he stays at least until the end of the season. Again against Hull, he was deployed in central midfield where he performed with discipline, as well as threatening to score twice via well struck free kicks.

Moving into the midfield and they are a couple whose absence would not damage the group. The first is a loyal long term servant and a personal favourite of mine, Michael Essien. I loved watching his surging runs from midfield and on occasions when Chelsea were chasing a goal, right back. His personality is an example to any young footballer (are you reading this Adam Lallana?), as despite being treated like a god in his home country, he remains humble and grateful for the adoration he receives. Sadly Michael’s powers have waned following successive injuries and his level below that required in our squad. I hope he finds another club soon, leaving behind many wonderful memories of him in his prime.

The other on the brink is at the opposite end of his career to Michael, but is equally expendable. This is the young Belgian Kevin de Bruyne, whose attitude has been questioned by the manager. With this doubt hanging over him and his position one where we possess an embarrassment of riches, a permanent transfer would be beneficial to all. In these times of financial fair play, £20 million from Wolfsburg is too good to decline and Mourinho has as good as confirmed his exit.

Should De Bruyne’s move come to pass, it would ensure Juan Mata remains at Chelsea for the time being. Most will be delighted with this development, although perhaps not the man himself. Juan showed his frustration for the first time at Southampton and has not been involved since. Mourinho stressed he wants to keep the Spaniard and stated, albeit in jest, he would tell the board to refuse any transfer request. Potential injuries, plus the rotational requirements of competing for three trophies make his presence vital, as his moment will surely come at some stage during the run in.

Of the forwards, Demba Ba is the most likely to leave. However, for this to happen, the stellar signing we desperately crave needs to be secured. If not, Demba will continue as third striker, employed to allow rest to Torres and Eto’o or to introduce a little physicality, when the moment requires it.

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