Chelsea’s busy summer transfer window is starting to heat up, with pre-season just around the corner. Thomas Tuchel has named a 29-man squad for the Blues’ tour of the USA, but that list is yet to contain any new signings.
That could soon change though, as football.london understands that both a fee and personal terms have been agreed with Raheem Sterling for a switch to Stamford Bridge. Manchester City teammate Nathan Ake could also join the England international in a shock return as advanced talks continue.
Should those two finally have their deals confirmed, there is still plenty of work for Tuchel to do. Squad depth is a particular concern, especially given the lack of it at times in the previous campaign.
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One area that was impacted heavily last time out was at wing-back. Both Reece James and Ben Chilwell were impacted with lengthy spells on the sideline through injury, forcing the manager to change his side beyond his ideal starting lineup.
With both Emerson and Marcos Alonso at his disposal, depth beyond Chilwell shouldn’t be a problem for Tuchel. However, on the right, there may be concerns, as Cesar Azpilicueta isn’t able to play the role the same way James can.
James’ importance can’t be understated, so much so that new owner Todd Boehly has made a move to keep him at the club. football.london understands that the England international will be offered a new deal that would keep him beyond the current 2025 expiration of his contract.
Should he not be available at times in the upcoming season, a quality squad option could fix that, with RC Lens full-back Jonathan Clauss heavily linked. The full-back impressed over the past 12 months, even going on to earn a first call-up to the France national team squad.
However, that also means it’s not just the Blues interested in a deal, as Fabrizio Romano reports that Marseille have an opening bid ready to sign the 29-year-old. It means Tuchel may have to look elsewhere if he wishes to add more options.
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