Chelsea had some needs that needed to be addressed during the summer transfer window period. The Blues went out and focused on players that can help them succeed in Premier League play. Who did they get and how will these players help Chelsea this season?
That's worth taking a look at right now. In checking on an overall grade for Chelsea, Simon Johnson of The Athletic gave the club a B grade.
"Chelsea were busy from the get-go, acquiring Liam Delap from Ipswich Town for £30million in the mini-window before their participation at the Club World Cup," Johnson wrote. "Joao Pedro was next through the door, coming from Brighton.
"The left wing was a priority, which was shown by the purchases of Jamie Gittens and Alejandro Garnacho," Johnson wrote. "Cover for left-back Marc Cucurella has been provided by the acquisition of Jorrel Hato from Ajax, while Facundo Buonanotte arrived from Brighton on deadline day on loan."
Estevao Willian also joined Chelsea from Palmeiras for €34m. Delap, though, is now out for a period of time with an injury.
Liam Delap (@Liam9Delap) on X
Will be back soon 💙
How much did Chelsea spend on their activity? Well, Transfermarkt indicates that Chelsea spent €328.16m. Chelsea also sold off players for a total of €332.25m, not including loan fees in their deals.
At the same time, Chelsea also looked to get Dean Huijsen, but that fell apart. Also, trying to get Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan didn't pan out. Another player that the Blues looked at as well was Hugo Ekitike, but he ended up with Liverpool.
Why did Johnson think that Chelsea deserved their B grade?
"It ended on a bit of a low note, especially with one of their main arrivals in Delap already suffering a hamstring injury," Johnson wrote. "But it should not be forgotten that the squad has far more cover in key positions with Estevao Willian, Andrey Santos (returning from loan), Dario Essugo (completing move from Sporting CP) and Hato to name just four."
Chelsea will be able to move forward with their new additions as Premier League play begins in earnest. How the Blues make these players fit on the pitch will be worth watching in the weeks ahead.