Chelsea Transfers: The Blues did some great summer business

Photo: Diego Costa (Chelsea FC)

Upon the return of their beloved Jose Mourinho, he stated that he was building a team to challenge for honours this season and beyond. In a summer that saw Ashley Cole, Romelu Lukaku, Samuel Eto’o, Frank Lampard, David Luiz and Fernando Torres all depart from Stamford Bridge, Chelsea ensured they recruited in the right areas with depth and quality through the team. With the legendary Lampard leaving, Roman Abramovich knew he had to fill the void in midfield and wasted no time capturing a world class player.

Despite being bitter enemies for quite some time in La Liga, Cesc Fabregas is now working under Mourinho after some fierce battles in El Classico. The Spanish creator was followed to Chelsea by Atletico Madrid pair Diego Costa and Filipe Lius as well as Didier Drogba, Mario Pasalic and Loic Remy. Drogba is also reunited with Mourinho and the fans are no doubt happy to see the Ivory Coast all time leading scorer back in the Blue of the Bridge. 

Pasalic was instantly loaned out to Elche in La Liga but the others are very much at the centre of Mourinho plans. The transfer window is now closed so Yardie Sports now takes a look at the Blues’ transfer activities and how they will affect their title chances.

Cesc Fabregas

The capture of Cesc is a major deal for the Blues and one which signaled their intent to find a ready-made replacement for ‘Super Frank.’ The former Arsenal captain spent 8 years in the BPL so he is accostumed to the pace, physicality and the demands of the league. He is a world class player and is a complete midfielder. He is extremely gifted technically with a great touch, wonderful vision and has an excellent range of passes. He has an eye for the spectacular and can single-handedly win games for the Blues. He is one of the best midfield maestros in the game and if he stays healthy then Chelsea will be right up there come the end of the season.

Diego Costa

The 25 year old Brazilian born Spanish striker was one of the hottest players in Europe last season scoring 36 goals for Atleti on their way to the La Liga title and the Champions League final. He is a combination of the old-fashion striker and a modern day striker. He is a player who chases everything, hassling defenders keeping them honest and constantly on the move. He runs the channels all day and always give his midfielders an option to make a forward pass. Costa is capable of the spectacular, running at defender using his trickery and pace as well as his power. He is strong in every department but one concern will be his recent injury worries. He is definitely a striker who will get 25+ goals but Mourinho must try to keep him healthy because they have a great chance of winning the league.

Filipe Luis

The 29 year old Brazilian left back was the best in his position last season in Europe. He looks a flawless player in every aspect of the game. He anticipates well, always finds himself in a great position, especially defensively and is good in one-on-one situations. He is comfortable on the ball and is very calm and composed when under pressure. He hardly ever gives the ball away and his attacking runs are always timely and intelligent. His final ball is also dangerous and he is not afraid to have a go at goal himself. He is an ideal replacement for Ashley Cole who served Chelsea brilliantly during his time at Stamford Bridge. Luis should have a successful season and the fans will certainly appreciate his work rate and his consistency.

Didier Drogba

Many thought his spot kick in the 2012 Champions League final was the last time he would kick a ball for Chelsea but they were wrong. Drogba is back at his old stomping ground and the romance of him linking up with Mourinho has surely excited the fans. At the age of 36, he may not have the legs and stamina of the past but his strength and ability to hit the back of the net is still in his locker. Drogba is perhaps the best striker ever to play for Chelsea and to have him back in the dressing room with Super Frank gone is a big boost for team morale. He is sure to get a few goals this season but he will have to make do with appearances off the bench or just an occasional start.

Loic Remy

After failing a medical with Liverpool, Loic Remy may have thought he would stay at Loftus Road but Mourinho moved for him on deadline day. He is a proven goalscorer in the Premiership so this is another safe transfer for the Blues. He brings more pace up front and the ability to run in behind will be wonderful for Chelsea because he will benefit from Cesc’s passes as well as that of Oscar and Hazard. He is a good deputy for Diego Costa and if given enough minutes he is capable of getting double figures in the goals column.

Mourinho can have no complaints or excuse because he made the best possible signings this summer. They are one of the big winners of the transfer market after landing a top quality striker and proven Premier League midfielder and striker. Chelsea are the Bookies favourite to become champions in May. Their business was also done early which means the players had a good preseason and time to get to know each other. If they can keep the squad healthy they will be a serious contender to lift the title and with 3 wins out of 3, they are flying at the moment.