This archive report was first published on 9 September 2019.
Chelsea's transfer ban, imposed by FIFA in the summer, has limited the club's ability to sign new players. However, the Blues are hopeful that an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) will be successful, allowing them to sign new players in January.
According to Express UK, Chelsea remain confident that their appeal will be upheld, paving the way for a busy winter transfer window.
Here are five players that Chelsea could sign in January if their transfer ban is lifted:
1. Wilfried Zaha (Crystal Palace) ¶
Wilfried Zaha has handed in a transfer request at Crystal Palace and is understood to be keen to join a top club. The Ivorian attacker was linked with a move to Arsenal in the summer but a switch to the Emirates fell through after the Gunners failed to meet his £80m price tag.
2. Milan Skriniar (Inter Milan) ¶
Chelsea's defence has been a major concern this season, with the club yet to keep a clean sheet in four matches. Milan Skriniar, a 24-year-old Slovakian defender, could offer a quick fix for the Blues. He has impressed in the Serie A and brings with him immense talent and rich experience.
3. Thomas Meunier (Paris Saint-Germain) ¶
With Cesar Azpilicueta on a decline in form, Chelsea may need to look for a replacement. Thomas Meunier, a 29-year-old French defender, is in his final months of his current deal at Paris Saint-Germain and could be an attractive option for the Blues.
4. Sergi Roberto (Barcelona) ¶
Chelsea boast great depth in the left-back role, but the addition of Sergi Roberto would still be a welcome idea for Frank Lampard. The 27-year-old Spaniard has a wealth of experience and could bring a new dimension to the Blues' defence.
5. Ryan Fraser (Bournemouth) ¶
Ryan Fraser's current deal with Bournemouth is set to expire in the summer, and the 25-year-old is understood not to be keen to extend the deal. This could force the Cherries to cash in on the Scottish star in January, making him an attractive option for Chelsea.
