Former England star Joe Cole has urged Chelsea to sign Barcelona star Robert Lewandowski and Manchester City defender John Stones. He believes that the two players would instantly improve Liam Rosenior's side.
Speaking to Metro, Cole claimed that Lewandowski can help Liam Delap and Joao Pedro develop at Chelsea. He wants the Blues to sign the Barcelona star on a free transfer and said:
"We need experience, someone to come in and support the young players. I would be looking at Lewandowski. If his contract is up at Barcelona, get him in for a year. That could work, someone to come in and help the young players. He is a big name, has that stature, and would be a huge presence in the dressing room. I think he could really help Joao Pedro and Liam Delap."
Cole added that Stones is another player who should be signed on a free transfer this summer, as they need an experienced player in the backline and said:
"John Stones as well maybe if City let his contract expire. He is another who could be an big presence in the dressing room, to help and nurture the great young centre-halves we have at Chelsea. He might not be able to play 50 or 60 games anymore but will improve players around him."
The former Blues star is unsure if they will start the reshuffle this summer, but has told them that age should not stop them from signing the players the squad needs. He said:
"I would welcome it, but I don’t think it will happen. They will be financial decisions again. Arsenal and Manchester City have been run smoothly to build a football team on the grass. Obviously, there is business in place these days because clubs are huge corporate entities.
"But unless Chelsea do that fully, they will struggle. You still have to get the right players in. If the right player is 28 years old and costs a fortune, you buy the right player. Buy the right players to build the team."
The Blues co-owner, Behdad Eghbali, hinted yesterday that the club are planning a change in their strategy after focusing on young players in the last few years.
Chelsea tried to sign Barcelona star last summer
Joe Cole has urged Chelsea to sign Robert Lewandowski from Barcelona this summer, but the Blues have been chasing another star from the Catalan club. They were interested in Fermin Lopez last summer, and reportedly launched a £40 million bid for the Spaniard.
Lewandowski has not signed a new deal at the club yet, and will be available for a free transfer. He has been linked with MLS clubs, Chicago Fire and Inter Miami, while the Saudi Pro League sides are also keeping tabs on him.