As the one-month mark since the summer transfer window closed approaches, and with the consequences of Chelsea not signing a midfielder already becoming apparent, attention should turn to recruiting one at the next available opportunity.

New boss Xabi Alonso, who started work back in July 2026, has overseen a major rebuild at Stamford Bridge, with 10 first-team players walking through the door. Premier League experience and proven quality were key targets, with players such as Maxence Lacroix, Morgan Rogers, Emiliano Martinez, Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck falling under this umbrella.

With areas of quality and versatility added over the summer, as shown by Marco Palestra, who, despite currently being sidelined with an injury, can predominantly play as a wing-back as well as a full-back, there is no doubt Chelsea have been left short in midfield.

The Blues were set to close a £47 million deal for Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara, but the Ligue 1 side went back on their agreement beyond the 11pm deadline on September 1, leaving Chelsea furious with what they viewed as deeply unprofessional conduct.

On the same night, the west London side sanctioned Enzo Fernandez’s exit to Manchester City in a £125m move. Chelsea could have pulled out of the deal but chose to honour their word to Manchester City and Fernandez.

Heading into the January window, the Blues have the opportunity to sign a midfielder and, with Moises Caicedo sidelined with an injury for the start of the season, it is evident that midfield is an area of the pitch that needs significant work.

In the opening five games of the Premier League season, Alonso’s side have conceded a staggering 12 goals, which is currently the most in the division. Caicedo’s return could improve matters from a defensive standpoint in midfield, but Chelsea haven’t kept a clean sheet in the league since their 2-0 victory over Brentford on January 17.

With the January window notoriously challenging for buying clubs, some names who were linked with a move to Stamford Bridge over the summer may prove difficult to sign in the winter. However, with a variety of factors to consider and the appropriate groundwork, Chelsea could still find a solution.

Over the summer, the Blues were linked with a host of names, including Alex Scott, Lamine Camara, Manu Koné, Adam Wharton and James Garner. Heading into January, Alonso should have his eyes on at least two of the above.

From a personal perspective, Scott would be my number one target heading into the window. The problem will be Bournemouth’s reported ‘untouchable’ stance.

With Chelsea having the Fernandez money in the bank and the 23-year-old having just 18 months left on his contract by the time we reach January, the deal doesn’t seem impossible on paper.

The England international’s high energy and work rate, both on and off the ball, in addition to his ability to progress possession, make him a perfect match to play alongside Caicedo. The signing would also fit with the summer’s objective of signing Premier League-proven players, and Scott certainly fits the bill.

The main stumbling block will remain Bournemouth, as they contend with both the Premier League and Europa League.

Despite the tensions and actions of Monaco on deadline day, business is still business at the end of the day. With the Ligue 1 side looking to cash in on the French star as recently as September, it would be interesting to see if Chelsea could test their resolve once more.

Camara would be a perfect midfield addition, as he can offer something both in and out of possession. With Monaco in the third tier of European competition, a deal may well be possible.

Possibly the hardest option and the most unrealistic target of the three mentioned, Adam Wharton offers something many top-level clubs lack. His intelligence on the ball is something Chelsea have lacked since Jorginho departed in 2023.

What could be a red flag is his vulnerability during transitions and his lack of athletic speed when moving the ball. He would bring more progression to Alonso’s side and could be key to helping Chelsea’s front three in tight games.

Crystal Palace, having both the Europa League and Premier League to contend with, could put any potential deal in doubt before a price tag is even published.

Plenty of names are on the market, and it is now up to Chelsea’s leadership team to deliver the goods for Alonso. Caicedo’s return will hopefully ensure the Blues climb the table, but the likes of Jordan Henderson, Reece James and Romeo Lavia are not long-term partners for the Ecuadorian star.