Here’s five world-class players linked with Chelsea since the transfer window opened, and what they could bring to Stamford Bridge…
5) Xabi Alonso – Real Madrid
According to the Daily Star, Along with Manchester United and Manchester City, Alonso has been offered to Chelsea by his agent.
The legendary Spanish midfielder is not getting any younger, but it still more than good enough to a job for a few more years at the very highest level.
His contract expires at the end of the season, so he would be available for a nominal fee. Alonso would add brilliant passing and guile to a Chelsea midfield currently bereft of a top level deep-lying playmaker. While Ramires and Mikel are excellent destroyers, and Lampard can still get into the opposition box and score goals, Alonso could dictate play in the centre of the park to a much greater level.
4) Mario Balotelli – AC Milan
The Daily Star reports that Chelsea could target the enigmatic Italian forward this transfer window.
Balotelli is reportedly dismayed at Milan’s poor first half to the season, and he wants to be playing for one of the best sides in Europe once again.
Mourinho and Balotelli endured a fractious relationship when the Portuguese managed the striker at Inter Milan, but the pair left on good terms, and have publicly praised each other since.
3) Fredy Guarin – Inter Milan
The Mirror reports that although the Serie A side have rejected a £13m bid for the Colombian midfielder, Chelsea should eventually secure their man.
Guarin would come in and strengthen a midfield in need of reinforcements, now Frank Lampard is out with a muscular injury.
Guarin is a neat passer of the ball, but is also combative and could break up attacks in the centre of the park.
2) Gonzalo Higuain – Napoli
The Argentine is a brilliant, clinical finisher, and has already scored 13 goals this term.
The Mirror reported that Chelsea have had a large bid rejected for his services, as Mourinho continues the search for his world-class striker.
Mourinho managed Higuain while in charge at Real Madrid, and the Portuguese is known to rate him extremely highly.
1) Wayne Rooney – Manchester United
ESPN reported this morning that the Blues could be lining up a £30m move for United’s superstar 27-year-old.
Chelsea targeted Rooney during the summer, but couldn’t sign because United were adamant they wouldn’t sell to a Premier league rival. If they don’t qualify for the Champions League this season though (which is looking like an ever increasing possibility) it is doubted that Rooney would sign a new contract, meaning United’s hand might be forced.
Rooney would arguably be the final piece in the Chelsea jigsaw, and provide them with the genuine world-class striking option Jose Mourinho has been crying out for.
