Chelsea have had a busy January that has seen the addition of six players before the final week of the window. David Datro Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, Joao Felix, Andrey Santos, Mykhailo Mudryk and Noni Madueke have all arrived at Stamford Bridge and there is still the intention to add more if the opportunity allows.
football.london reported earlier this week that talks with Lyon over the signing of Malo Gusto were underway. An agreement has yet to be reached with the Ligue 1 side but a fee in the region of £35million is expected to be enough to secure a seventh signing.
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has claimed that Gusto will remain in France for the remainder of the season, though the Frenchman's words have often seen Les Gones quickly part with their charges. However, if Gusto is signed by Todd Boehly and co, a number of players will be impacted whether that be immediately or come the summer.
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football.london takes a look at the main Chelsea stars who could see direct consequences.
Reece James - The wing-back, who is nearing his return from injury, is in no danger of losing his starting position when he is fit. His influence on Chelsea's play and the quality he imbues ensures that he is probably the first name on Graham Potter's teamsheet when he is available.
The addition of Gusto may see a greater likelihood of James being rested or, as Thomas Tuchel was tempted to do on occasion, allow James to play on the right of a back three for a lesser exertion while still being able to draw on the 23-year-old's quality.
Cesar Azpilicueta - The Spanish veteran was persuaded to extend his stay at Stamford Bridge in the summer to help aid Chelsea's defensive transition during a tumultuous period for the club but has recently found that Trevoh Chalobah is proffered at right-back. Another body who can feature in the position could see the 33-year-old left with few minutes and may reconsider his future come the summer.
Trevoh Chalobah - The addition of another right-back would see the academy product likely return to his more central position in Chelsea's backline and competing for a spot against the likes of Thiago Silva and Benoit Badiashile.
Dion Rankine - The 20-year-old wing-back has been involved in first team training at various points throughout the season while starring for the development side that is currently top of Premier League 2. The youngster has not yet been afforded an opportunity by Potter and another signing in his position will likely come as a blow. However, despite his deal being set to expire in the summer, he appears set to extend his stay. A loan may be the most sensible option.
Dujon Sterling - The defender is currently on loan at Stoke, and for many seemed a useful back-up option for the Blues on both defensive flanks during the summer. An injury picked up in a friendly with the development squad ensured opportunities were limited before his departure and the 23-year-old will face another body to overcome. Given he has impressed during his loan spells, albeit with injury concerns, he is likely to draw interest in the summer.
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