Your morning Chelsea transfer round-up on Wednesday, January 18.
Enzo Fernandez hope
Chelsea could yet sign their dream midfielder this month despite talks with Enzo Fernandez collapsing several weeks ago. The 22-year-old was seemingly close to joining but no fee could be agreed with Benfica.
His Benfica manager, Roger Schmidt, has been public in saying that the case is closed and no deal will be done this month but given the Blues' needs for a new midfielder it cannot be ruled out.
Graham Potter is looking to overhaul the centre of the pitch as it has been largely neglected in recent years and Fernandez was seen as the man to do that.
READ MORE: Todd Boehly has three Declan Rice alternatives as Chelsea handed transfer blow by Arsenal
According to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth, things aren't as closed off as they appear. He said: "The people I’m speaking to in Portugal who’ve got close links to Benfica, are telling me this one doesn’t feel over, simply because his head was turned so much earlier in the window."
Read the full story, here.
Champions League registration
There is no guarantee that all of Chelsea's new winter signings will be able to play in the Champions League this season. The Blues face Borussia Dortmund in the last-16 but face a tough decision as to who they will be able to rely on.
Champions League rules allow clubs to register three new players in time for the knockout rounds and Potter currently has 24 list A players.
Eight places in the squad are reserved for locally trained players, while four of those are allowed to be association-trained players. This leaves players from overseas particularly vulnerable given the profile of Chelsea's signings so far.
Read the full story, here.
Gallagher decision
Chelsea look set to make a huge decision regarding the future of Conor Gallagher. The midfielder starred against his former club at the weekend but still has an uncertain at Stamford Bridge, football.london understands.
He has struggled to cement a place in the squad this season but has remained a regular substitute option for Potter. With an established pedigree as a Premier League player now, appearing in his third straight season in the top flight, Gallagher is attracting the attention of Newcastle and Crystal Palace once more.
"I thought he was fantastic; great energy and great quality," said Potter after the 1-0 win on Sunday. "He was playing against a team he respects and likes a lot."
Read the full story, here.
READ NEXT:
Chelsea handed Enzo Fernandez transfer hope as £70m bid prepared for January alternative
Fofana, Zakaria, James, Pulisic - Chelsea injury news and return dates ahead of Liverpool clash
Todd Boehly has three Declan Rice alternatives as Chelsea handed transfer blow by Arsenal
Graham Potter can recreate Brighton success as Chelsea receive unexpected Liverpool boost
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from Stamford Bridge
