Chelsea's Transfer Countdown: Which Missing Pieces Must the Blues Secure Before Deadline Day?

Chelsea's summer transfer activity has been characteristically hectic, but it's nearing its end.

The Blues have been outspent only by Liverpool during this transfer period, with numerous signings costing them well beyond £200 million ($268.3 million), though they've also been extremely active in selling players to help offset expenses.

Chelsea's acquisition strategy has again focused on young talent rather than seasoned players despite Enzo Maresca's previous season concerns, and there's still business to complete in the window's final days despite their enormous expenditure.

Here's what Chelsea needs to accomplish before this summer's transfer deadline.

Secure Xavi Simons & Alejandro Garnacho

Chelsea have predominantly acquired offensive players this summer, yet there appears to be space for additional signings. Despite their numerous attacking options, their scoreless stalemate against Crystal Palace in their Premier League debut exposed creativity and scoring deficiencies.

Xavi Simons and Alejandro Garnacho have been suggested as solutions to these issues, with Chelsea eager to secure both before the deadline. The former has gained recognition at RB Leipzig and should offer flexibility and creativity in the attacking third, while the latter would enhance the club's roster of quick, skillful wingers.

Whether Chelsea truly requires substantial investment in two more young attackers is questionable, but the club clearly believes reinforcements are necessary, and both players' abilities are undeniable. If Chelsea's new attacking arsenal performs immediately, Maresca will possess one of Europe's most formidable offensive units.

Strengthen Central Defense

Chelsea currently appear unbalanced. They possess numerous elite choices in attack and midfield, but their defense, though adequately staffed, lacks comparable star power. Levi Colwill's recent ACL injury, which will sideline him for most of the season, only heightens concerns about their defensive strength.

Chelsea's center-back selections hardly suggest Premier League title contenders. Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoît Badiashile, Wesley Fofana and Jorrel Hato are capable players, but none can truly be classified as top-tier defenders.

The Blues appear unlikely to add defensive reinforcements before the window closes—though with Chelsea nothing is guaranteed—but they may rue overlooking their backline. They understand better than most that championships are frequently secured by defenses rather than attacks, with Maresca's team potentially struggling against Europe's best without Colwill anchoring the defense.

Chelsea appear determined to strengthen their defense next summer, but delaying might prove costly for their 2025–26 aspirations.

Clear Surplus Players

Chelsea have already reached double figures for player departures and loans this summer, yet their list of unwanted players remains lengthy. Reports suggest the Blues still aim to move as many as eight players before the deadline, including several prominent names that should generate substantial transfer revenue.

Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku are most likely to bring Chelsea significant income, with the Blues keen to facilitate their exits immediately. They will almost certainly need to lower their reported £100 million valuation for Jackson, but he could still generate considerable profit, while Nkunku is expected to fetch approximately £43 million.

Raheem Sterling, Ben Chilwell and Carney Chukwuemeka are all English players set to leave this summer, with the latter nearing a permanent switch to Borussia Dortmund. Chelsea have reportedly softened their position on Sterling's exit to facilitate his departure.

Axel Disasi will depart either temporarily or permanently, while a loan arrangement is close to completion between Dortmund and Aarón Anselmino. Tyrique George might also be loaned out to gain crucial first-team minutes.

Chelsea urgently need to reduce their bloated squad before the Sep. 1 deadline, but moving so many players in such a brief timeframe will challenge their recruitment department.