Chelsea starting XI if the transfer rumours are true - 2 signings

Chelsea have been looking ahead to the January transfer window for many weeks now as they plan to bring in some new recruits to help boost their form this season. The Blues are currently tenth in the Premier League table with just six wins on the board, and they'll be looking to propel up the table in 2024.

There is some business to be done first though and it's to be expected that Chelsea will indeed dip into the transfer fund once again. So, as we approach the final days of the year, we've assessed the most recent Chelsea rumours. Here's how Mauricio Pochettino's starting 11 could look at the end of January if these links come to fruition.

Goalkeeper: Robert Sánchez

The Blues will be eager to get their No.1 back from injury, with a predicted return date coming at the end of January. If his fitness is on track, Sánchez should be back by the end of the transfer window, if not, Chelsea will keep relying on Djordje Petrovic.

Right-back: Malo Gusto

With Reece James not expected back for several months, Pochettino will need to utilise his other options. Malo Gusto has started six league games this season and could be given a streak of opportunities while James is out, considering he is the only other natural right-back on the roster.

With no right-back targets on the transfer radar either, it makes sense to save the cash here and spend it on other problem areas.

Centre-back: Thiago Silva

Chelsea's most senior defender is entering the final months of his contract but he will see out the season as a key part of the backline. Any new recruits will likely be brought in as his replacement.

Centre-back: Ousmane Diomande

Chelsea are on the market for another centre-back this winter and the Evening Standard has reported that the Blues have 'made contact' over a deal for Sporting CP's Diomande. The 20-year-old has been identified as one of the club's primary targets and he could well be the one to replace Thiago Silva, freeing up a spot for the other centre-backs to tussle over.

Left-back: Ben Chilwell

With their left-back crisis making a dent in the squad, Chelsea will be glad to see Chilwell return to the squad. The England international is expected to return next month, having been out with a hamstring injury since September.

Centre midfield: Enzo Fernández

Amid Conor Gallagher's exit links, it's even more likely Enzo will comfortably keep his starting spot in midfield as we head into the second half of the season.

Centre midfield: Moises Caicédo

Since signing for an eye-watering £115 million during the summer, Pochettino is looking to get the most of out the young midfielder. Caicédo has missed just one Premier League match this season due to injury, and he has been growing in confidence since his arrival.

Attacking midfield: Cole Palmer

Palmer is really showing what he's capable of this season and is standing out as one of Chelsea's most important players. With an impressive six goals and three assists in the league so far, his impact on the pitch has certainly cemented his spot in the starting lineup.

Right wing: Raheem Sterling

Sterling may not have started every league match this season but he hasn't missed an occasion. The versatile winger has notched nine goalscoring contributions so far and will only look to add more to his tally.

Left wing: Mykhaylo Mudryk

As he approaches his first full year at Stamford Bridge, the winger is settling in nicely. With Sterling operating on the right, Mudryk is the only natural left-winger on the Chelsea roster.

Centre-forward: Viktor Gyökeres

Chelsea are said to be on the market for another new forward as they look to improve their form in front of goal this season. January could see them splash out on a new striker and according to the same Evening Standard report, the Blues are hoping to hit Sporting CP for two signings next month.

Viktor Gyökeres is on the radar and while the club are reluctant to sell, they have set a fee of £87 million. Big asking prices haven't scared off Chelsea before, and with 17 goals and eight assists in 20 appearances this season, it's not hard to see why they are interested in Gyökeres.