According to The Chelsea Chronicle, Chelsea has the opportunity to make adjustments to their squad as the January transfer window opens. Several players currently out on loan may be recalled, potentially offering a boost to the first team during a crucial period of the season.
While Aaron Anselmino and Gabriel Slonina have already returned from their respective loan spells, with Anselmino ending his time at Boca Juniors and Slonina back from Barnsley, further moves are still possible.
Though nothing concrete has emerged yet, The Chelsea Chronicle identifies five players who could be recalled for various reasons, including the possibility of bolstering the squad with key reinforcements.
One standout name among the loan players is Andrey Santos, who is currently on loan at Strasbourg. The 19-year-old midfielder has been performing impressively in France, making a significant impact in his 15 appearances for the team.
Santos has not only shown consistency but has also demonstrated his goal-scoring abilities, netting seven goals this season. Santos has been described as the standout player for Strasbourg, with journalist Graeme Bailey noting his impressive form.
With Chelsea facing uncertainty over injuries to Romeo Lavia and concerns regarding Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s future, the Blues could find it valuable to bring Santos back to the squad. His excellent form could offer Enzo Maresca another reliable option in the midfield.
On the other hand, Raheem Sterling’s loan at Arsenal has been far less successful. Despite joining the Gunners for the season, Sterling has struggled for regular game time, with just two Premier League starts under his belt.
His lack of influence at Arsenal has prompted questions over his future, and recent reports suggest he may need Chelsea to intervene and end his loan. While Sterling’s massive wages complicate potential moves, it seems his time at Arsenal is unlikely to be fruitful, and a return to Chelsea or even a loan to another club could be on the cards.
Lesley Ugochukwu, another player out on loan, has also faced challenges during his time in the Premier League. Ugochukwu, who is currently with a Premier League club, has found game time hard to come by.
Earlier reports suggested that Chelsea might recall the young midfielder, but he has had some minutes recently, which could change his status. Nevertheless, Ugochukwu’s lack of consistent appearances this season raises questions about his development, and his situation could evolve depending on how the next few weeks unfold.
In defense, Chelsea may also consider recalling Trevoh Chalobah. Chalobah is currently at Crystal Palace for the season, and with injuries affecting key defenders like Wesley Fofana, Chelsea could use additional depth in their defensive ranks. Maresca has expressed doubts about some of his defensive options, such as Tosin Adarabioyo, and might see Chalobah as a valuable asset to bring back. Given the defensive struggles this season, Chalobah could provide crucial cover for Chelsea in the backline, especially if Fofana’s injury keeps him sidelined for the long term.
Lastly, Alfie Gilchrist could be another name that Chelsea considers recalling, particularly if the club needs reinforcements in defense. The 21-year-old has been performing well at Sheffield United, primarily playing as a right-back
