Now that the international break is here, it is a good time to assess Chelsea loaned players how they could fit into Thomas Tuchel’s plan next season.
Big name players will always be linked with transfers to the Blues. However, there are some players currently on the books at the Blues who could prove to be just as effective as a new signing. Tuchel’s style and philosophy has created a potential path for some of these loanees to break into the first team squad. There are five names who particularly stand out impressing on loan thus far and could see themselves at Stamford Bridge next season.
Fikayo Tomori, the most obvious stand out candidate who could see himself not only return to the squad but could also become an integral first team player. Tomori started the season with the Blues but it seems there was issues behind the scenes with former manager Frank Lampard which saw his minutes limited. In January, he made his move to AC Milan and has since flourished.
Now with the three at the back formation being the preferred formation at Chelsea, Tomori undoubtedly has a future at the club. Tomori would be comfortable playing any of the three center back roles and with Cesar Azpilicueta now on the wrong side of 30, Tomori could make the right sided center back position his own. The major concern around Tomori is whether he will even return to London with AC Milan eager to make his move a permanent one, it would be in Tuchel’s best interest to convince the young man to stay.
The second loan player who could make an impact next season at Stamford Bridge is Conor Gallagher. Despite his loan club West Brom languishing in 19th in the Premier League, Gallagher has been a consistent star performer and has showed attributes which fit Chelsea’s current system perfectly.
Tuchel’s midfield consists of two “double six” which he frequently refers to, this role requires midfielders who are comfortable in possession, have the ability to tackle and recover the ball quickly. Gallagher would thrive in such a role also the young man is only 21 and has much room to improve. Just to train with the first team and get to know Tuchel’s ideas better could eventually see Gallagher become a stalwart in the team.
There has been much speculation about Chelsea potentially signing a new striker this summer either as a starter or a backup option but if that doesn’t come to fruition Armando Broja deserves a chance. The 19-year-old striker currently at loan at Vitesse in Eredivisie has put up some impressive numbers. At time of writing, Broja has scored 11 goals and provided 2 assists in 23 appearances.
These numbers could see him become a squad player at Chelsea next season and in time push for starting spot considering his young age. Also, with Tammy Abrahams long term future in doubt and Oliver Giroud 34 years old, Broja could become a necessary reinforcement next season.
The three at back formation requires at least five senior level center backs at the club and this is where Marc Guehi could fit in. Guehi, despite only being 20 years old as been vital to Swansea’s push for promotion in the Championship. The young center back is quick, assured on the ball and has great interceptions.
If Thiago Silva’s contract is extended or not, it will benefit Guehi either way. If Silva is to stay at Stamford Bridge next season, Guehi can learn from his game which would benefit him immensely. If the Brazilian leaves this would leave a gaping hole in Chelsea’s squad which Guehi could contribute in filling.
Ross Barkley is the final player who could see himself return to the Blues next season. This is probably the most unlikely inclusion just because of the abundance of quality the Blues already have in the attacking positions. However, there has been a lack of goals in these areas and Barkley is a “shoot on sight” type of player. This sort of mentality could seem him force his way back into the first team.
Who from the loan army would you like to see back? Let us know in the comments and on Twitter!