Examining how Chelsea can strengthen their squad, keep one of their most important stars happy and move on players who have no future at the club
Mark Whiley Sports Reporter
13:48, 22 Jan 2026
Jeremy Jacquet
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Jeremy Jacquet could be on his way to Chelsea(Image: Jean Catuffe, Getty Images)
Liam Rosenior faces a substantial to-do list following his appointment as Chelsea head coach in place of Enzo Maresca.
Despite the club's significant investment under the current ownership, there remain obvious weaknesses within the squad that require attention. Wednesday's uninspiring Champions League victory against Pafos did little to improve the atmosphere at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues' chances of bypassing the play-off round hang in the balance going into next week's final group stage fixtures. At the same time, their Premier League title hopes have evaporated and they face an uphill battle in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Arsenal after suffering a 3-2 defeat at home in the first leg. Here are some of the pressing matters on the new head coach's agenda....
Centre-back arrives
After failing to fulfil Maresca's request during the summer window, Chelsea are now pursuing a centre-back this month. Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet tops their target list and has reportedly already agreed personal terms with the club.
The crucial stumbling block remains the fee. Chelsea are understood to value the player at £43million while Rennes are demanding £52m, which could potentially allow rival clubs to enter the race.
Jeremy Jacquet
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Chelsea and Rennes remain in talks over Jacquet(Image: Getty)
Liverpool and Arsenal are among the other sides reportedly interested in the 20-year-old. One potential solution being discussed to finalise a deal involves Chelsea completing the signing this month before loaning him back to Rennes until the end of the current campaign, reports RMC Sport.
While that scenario wouldn't address the Blues' defensive concerns in the immediate future, it could be a shrewd piece of business to secure one of Europe's most sought-after young talents.
Tie Reece James down
There are concerns that Reece James may be considering his options if Chelsea continue to underperform in the Premier League. Having battled through numerous injury setbacks, the £44m-rated star has been among the Blues' most consistent performers this campaign.
The club must demonstrate he can fulfil his ambitions at Stamford Bridge. While he still has more than two years remaining on his existing deal, a fresh contract would help cement his future, or at least stop him from leaving on the cheap.
Reece James of Chelsea reacts during the Premier League match between Fulham and Chelsea at Craven Cottage on January 07, 2026 in London, England
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There are doubts about Reece James's Chelsea future(Image: 2026 Chelsea FC)
Another clearout
Given the constant player turnover at Stamford Bridge, a clearout has become a yearly ritual. With certain players evidently surplus to requirements, it would be sensible to offload them at the earliest opportunity.
These include striker David Datro Fofana, who has been recalled from his loan spell with Turkish outfit Fatih Karagumruk with a view to selling him this month. Leicester City are among the clubs to have been linked with the Ivorian.
Another forward, Tyrique George, is available and has been linked with Bournemouth, who are searching for a striker following the departure of Antoine Semenyo to Manchester City. Crystal Palace and Fulham are also possible destinations.
Tyrique George
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Tyrique George has seen opportunities dry up at Chelsea(Image: Getty Images)
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Sterling situation resolved
Raheem Sterling still doesn't appear to have a future at the club, despite the departure of Maresca. Rosenior hinted earlier this week that things "will be clearer in the next couple of days," implying that the former Manchester City and Liverpool winger could finally be set to depart the club this month.
It's difficult to blame a player earning £325,000 per week for not being particularly keen to move on, but something needs to shift if he is to resurrect a career that hasn't merely stalled, but is in decline. Both parties need to reach a compromise, whether that involves terminating his contract or arranging a transfer or a loan.
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