talkSPORT radio logo
On Air Now: SCHEDULE
 

Magazine

SIX defensive midfield January transfer targets for Chelsea - replace Romeu and Mikel?

Next picture The Corinthians star has been increasingly linked with a move to Chelsea, with talkSPORT reporting in November that Rafa Benitez was attempting to beat his former club Internazionale to his signature. Paulinho helped Corinthians win their first ever Copa Liberatadores earlier this year, and starred as the Brazilians booked their place in the Club World Cup final. Should Chelsea reach the final, they will be able to get a good look at Paulinho's ability. Click the arrow for more...

The Corinthians star has been increasingly linked with a move to Chelsea, with talkSPORT reporting in November that Rafa Benitez was attempting to beat his former club Internazionale to his signature. Paulinho helped Corinthians win their first ever Copa Liberatadores earlier this year, and starred as the Brazilians booked their place in the Club World Cup final. Should Chelsea reach the final, they will be able to get a good look at Paulinho's ability. Click the arrow for more...

photo 1 of 6

By talkSPORT magazine | Wednesday, December 12, 2012

 

Following Chelsea's confirmation that Oriol Romeu will miss the rest of the season with a serious knee injury, and with John Obi Mikel set to take part in January's African Cup of Nations tournament, the Blues suddenly find themselves short on midfield ballast.

Despite boasting a plethora of attacking talent, Chelsea are severely lacking in defensive options. The Blues' reliance on a deeper-lying player has become an integral part of their game, and even led interim boss Rafa Benitez to suggest that the club will need to dip into the transfer market in January.

“If you have too many players with quality, all dynamic but cannot regain the ball - you do not have the balance. If you give the ball away, you have to regain [it],” Benitez said.

With Michael Essien on loan at Real Madrid, Chelsea will need to bring in reinforcements if they are to mount a serious title challenge this season. Here are six players they should considering moving for.

CLICK THE ARROW ON THE RIGHT TO SEE WHO CHELSEA COULD SIGN

Which of these stars should Chelsea move for? Who would fit in best at Stamford Bridge? Have your by commenting below...