Three positions Chelsea must strengthen this summer – Talk Chelsea

After a pretty intense season of ups and downs, Chelsea are finally reaching the finish line, with two final games to play this week.

A year ago we had the excitement of a hectic summer ahead – at this stage it was already guaranteed that there would be major sales and signings. But what does this summer hold?

We’d like to think that after a tumultuous first two years of this ownership, with unprecedented turnover in terms of buying and selling, that this would be relatively quiet. And in comparison to last summer, it could well be. But there is still a lot to do, and no shortage of areas where fans are desperate to see their team improved.

The priority, without doubt is centre forward. For all of Nicolas Jackson’s qualities and the way he has improved through the season, there’s no doubt he needs an alternative at the very least. That won’t be easy, as there is huge competition for everything on the market.

Another area Chelsea look certain to target is centre back. Thiago Silva is leaving, which creates a space for an experienced player at the back. Wesley Fofana could yet come back to play an important role, but after what amounts to 3 consecutive seasons out, we can’t rely on that.

Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile have yet to convince as long term options, so a centre back is almost certainly coming in at some point this summer.

A goalkeeper feels like a possibility too – the two bought last summer haven’t instilled confidence. Although the fact we’ve invested in three players in the last four windows there may mean the sporting directors are inclined to prioritise other areas and give their guys time to improve.

Also on the agenda is a left back. Despite Marc Cucurella’s recent renaissance playing in an inverted role, there’s still a strong sense that he’s not quite up to it at the very top level, and that Ben Chilwell is never going to be able to be relied upon for a full season.

We did a great job finding Malo Gusto as an able deputy to Reece James at right back, now we need an equivalent on the left.

Chelsea have been short in central midfield this season too, but there’s plenty of hope that Romeo Lavia and Lesley Ugochukwu, who missed most of this season, will provide the necessary depth next season.