Premier League: Five players whom Chelsea should target in January
What's the story
Liverpool are in control at the moment in the Premier League, while the other big teams are neck-on-neck. Chelsea are one such team who, too, are eyeing the top four, being placed fourth in the table so far. However, they can't do so without some star players, as we rank the players they should own in January, provided their transfer ban is lifted.
Ruben Dias
The Portuguese is being targeted by several EPL clubs
The Portuguese sensation in the form of Ruben Dias is already being targeted by a number of EPL clubs. However, given the desperate need for a defender for Chelsea, he would suit them the most. Having played all the eight games for Benfica so far this season, he has been a regular for them, as well as Portugal, making him a top target.
Thomas Meunier
The Belgian could start a fresh career at Chelsea
Chelsea are already troubled by Cesar Azpilicueta's dull run so far in the season, while Reece James's injury has made things difficult for them. As a result, Frank Lampard has his eyes on Thomas Meunier, who too has been struggling to get a permanent spot at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). While he is out of contract next summer, a move in January still makes sense.
Sergi Roberto
The Spanish defensive mid-fielder is what Chelsea need
Continuing to work on defense, Chelsea can also look out for Barcelona's Sergi Roberto, who can play both as a right-back and in the mid-field, ideally making him a defensive mid-fielder. He has got the versatility, along with pace and strength, while his accurate passing is enough to earn the praise of any manager, including Lampard. Thus, Chelsea might have found their perfect one.
Wilfried Zaha
The Crystal Palace wonder-boy is London's favorite target
The wonder-boy from Crystal Palace, Wilfried Zaha, had a tough time finding his feet when he had moved to Manchester United. However, he is back to being his best at Palace. While, Chelsea's rivals Arsenal, too, are after him, his £80 million price tag is too much for them. Difficult to be contained as a forward, he would give fellow Chelsea strikers a competition.
Youcef Atal
An Algerian wild card on offer
The Algerian full-back and winger, Youcef Atal's stats, playing at Nice, have been phenomenal. As per Squawka's analysis, he completed 101 take-on during the last season, which made him the prime Ligue 1 defender. The 23-year-old also won 44 tackles, along with 56 interceptions and 144 recoveries, with a dribble rate of 1.31 per 90 minutes. Certainly lip-smacking and indeed Chelsea's true wild card.