Chelsea have reportedly laid out their plan over how to approach for the upcoming January transfer window.
Enzo Maresca laid out his intention to work with a squad of 23 or 24 players soon upon his arrival at Stamford Bridge in the summer.
As it stands, however, as many as 35 different players have been used in all competitions, the Italian having rotated between Premier League, Conference League and EFL Cup fixtures.
With Chelsea out of the EFL Cup and not resuming their Conference League campaign until March, decisions now have to be taken regarding a wide array of squad players, as well whether any signings will be made.
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Will Chelsea buy in January?
According to The Athletic, Chelsea's hierarchy currently have no intention of making any additions during the January transfer window.
Although it is made clear that the possibility of at least one incoming remains, Chelsea are happy with their first-team group and have one eye on future transfer windows instead.
Furthermore, it is highlighted that as many as five players will be linking up with the first-team squad from July onwards in goalkeeper Mike Penders, defender Aaron Anselmino, midfielder Andrey Santos (after his loan spell with Strasbourg) and young South American attacking duo Kendry Paez and Estevao Willian.
While it is plausible that some of those prospects could be loaned elsewhere, the scenario remains where a quintet of newcomers may need to be added to what is an already highly-regarded first-team squad.
The report suggests that the bigger decisions are with regards to which players will be sold or loaned out at the turn of the year.
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What is Chelsea's priority?
Finding a new home for Ben Chilwell is said to be Chelsea's priority, a consequence of the left-back not featuring in Maresca's plans and being one of the club's highest-earners.
Chelsea are also aware that they need to decide how to handle the next phase of Marc Guiu's development, the Spaniard currently top goalscorer in the Conference League but facing the prospect of minimal football until that competition resumes in March.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Carney Chukwuemeka may also leave should a suitable proposal be made, Maresca acknowledging himself that he expects such conversations to be had.
Cesare Casadei, Harvey Vale, Alex Matos and Deivid Washington are also expected to move elsewhere, either on a permanent or temporary basis.
Darren Plant
