Chelsea transfer targets to prevent a repeat of Manchester United loss

Wings

Like Courtois, Kante and the wingbacks, one clear player stands out here: Eden Hazard. Hazard can be world class on his day, but he is often a black hole for defenders. This hampers his ability to create, but it hampers the entire squad even more so because Hazard is the only black hole up front.

Pedro and Willian, though quality players, cannot do what Hazard does. They are not going to suck defenders away like Hazard and they are not going to be unstoppable when given space. What Chelsea need in this position is a player to match Hazard’s ability. A winger that can draw just as much attention and do just as much damage when Hazard is the focus is vital.

Alexis Sanchez is the Premier League’s proven option. He is regularly just behind Hazard in conversation, is keen to stay in London and is ready to get off the sinking ship that is Arsenal. The biggest stumbling block will be Arsenal themselves, who will not want to let their star player go to a major rival.

Bernardo Silva of Monaco and James Rodriguez of Real Madrid would be interesting choices. Silva has the makings of a world class star and would be reminiscent of Hazard coming from Ligue 1 to the Premier League. He is not as quick on his feet as Hazard, but has all the other skills to be his match on the right.

As for James, he has shown plenty of quality in the last few years even if Zinedine Zidane has favored other players over him. Unfortunately, any deal with Real Madrid will likely have to come with a player going the other way or a massive price tag, neither of which is particularly attractive.

But the sneakiest option of all may be Antoine Griezmann. It is only a matter of time before he tests himself elsewhere. With Atletico Madrid loving Diego Costa, a swap plus cash deal could be the best for all parties. It is a pipe dream, but Chelsea would be hard pressed to find a deal that universally appeals in such a way.