While the date of the next transfer window is currently unknown due to the Coronavirus pandemic, it could have a pivotal effect on the future of Chelsea. Several players are out of contract, while Frank Lampard may want to move to players on and away from Stamford Bridge. As a result, it is vital that the club get it right to help define their future.
The Next Transfer Window Could Help Define the Future of Chelsea
Out of Contract Players
Five players are out of contract at the end of this season at Stamford Bridge. All except one are above the age of 30.
Marco van Ginkel is likely to depart west London at the end of his contract. The Dutchman was signed by Chelsea in 2013, and has had little effect ever since. He has featured just four times across the last seven years, and has instead spent much of his time with the club out on loan.
While Frank Lampard won’t feel the effects of his midfielder’s departure, he is likely to recognise the gaping holes left by the quartet above 30. They all play roles in his first-team, whether that may be as first choice or in a back-up role.
Willian is arguably the most high-profile, and most likely to affect the starting line-up. He has featured 37 times so far this season, scoring seven times and registering six assists.
The Brazilian is not adored by fans at Stamford Bridge, but he would leave a sizeable and problematic hole should he depart. In the last five seasons, he has appeared in over 40 games in each of them. The 31-year-old is a regular contributor to goals, having registered 12 assists last season, and scoring double figures between 2015 and 2018. Replacing him would prove a tough ask.
Olivier Giroud and Pedro are also out of contract this summer, although the latter has hinted that talks are still to take place. They are not first-choice in their respective positions under Frank Lampard, but their quality would still need replacing, Giroud more so. If he departs, it would leave just Tammy Abraham and Michy Batshuayi up-front, but the Belgian is also expected to depart. As a result, that hinges a lot of responsibility on Abraham’s young shoulders.
Despite his resurgence in recent weeks, coupled with the poor form of Kepa Arrizabalaga, Willy Caballero is still likely to leave Stamford Bridge when his contract expires.
Need to Get Rid of the Deadwood
Chelsea’s spending of the past has caught up with them. They have been plagued by players that are surplus to requirements. Now, they need to decide on their futures.
Currently out on loan, both Davide Zappacosta and Kenedy are likely to be allowed to leave. Neither of them have performed to the standard set at Chelsea.
Furthermore, Michy Batshuayi and Marcos Alonso will also see doubt cast over there future at the club. Frank Lampard has used the pair sporadically in the starting line-up, with most of their appearances coming from the bench. Ross Barkley is another who is likely to come into this category.
How Do Chelsea Approach the Next Transfer Window?
Do Chelsea go into the next transfer window with a scattergun approach? Or should Frank Lampard continue to show faith in his academy?
After the performances of those who have been promoted to the first-team this season, there is definitely a case for Lampard to continue to show faith in the academy. Several are already tipped to feature more next season, such as defender Ian Maatsen.
However, the club still need fresh faces. As a result, they have to find the right balance between new signings and continuing to use their academy. They do not want to put this years hard work to waste.
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