Chelsea reportedly intend to avoid adding more numbers to their first-team squad in January, instead only signing players if they are able to facilitate departures.
During a chaotic summer, Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital oversaw a wide array of incomings and departures, with the priority being to get back on track with FFP.
However, they also targeted lowering the average age of Mauricio Pochettino's squad as they looked to lay down the foundations for the future.
As it stands, as many as 24 different players have been used in this season's Premier League, more than Pochettino would have hoped due to the injuries that have hit his squad.
Of the players concerned, 21 are regarded as first-team players, with Alex Matos and Deivid Washington viewed as fringe members and Mason Burstow being out on loan at Sunderland.
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With Chelsea down in 10th position in the Premier League standings, speculation persists that targets are already being identified ahead of business opening at the turn of the year.
If reports are to be believed, signing a new centre-forward is the priority, but the West Londoners may be open to adding to other areas if an opportunity arises.
According to The Telegraph, Chelsea will adopt a policy where they will only made additions if they are able to part ways with various players.
The report suggests that each of Trevoh Chalobah, Ian Maatsen and Malang Sarr are available for transfer, the preference likely to be permanent deals.
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Chalobah had already dropped down the pecking order before sustaining a hamstring injury that has prevented him from playing any competitive football this season.
Maatsen had wanted to try to break into Pochettino's plans, but he has made just two starts - each in the EFL Cup - with a further seven substitute outings coming in the top flight.
Sarr has not been in contention for Chelsea since the end of the 2021-22 campaign and is allegedly attracting interest from clubs in Serie A.
A recent report also indicated that a loan exit may be considered for Armando Broja, but that will be dependent on whether Chelsea sign an alternative option for the middle of their frontline.
Darren Plant
