Antonio Conte has suggested that he is keen to strengthen his Chelsea squad in January to bolster their chances of winning the Premier League title. The Blues are currently in first place with a six-point lead over 2nd placed Liverpool. Conte’s men have won 11 games in a row since their defeat to Arsenal in September. Conte’s side have conceded just two goals and secured victories over touted title rivals in Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.
During the summer transfer window, N’Golo Kante, Michy Batshuayi, Marcos Alonso and David Luiz were recruited and having spent over £120 million the West London outfit may continue their spending spree. With Brazilian midfielder Oscar moving to Chinese Super League side Shanghai SIPG for £60 million, Chelsea would possibly try to sign a replacement for the 25-year-old.
Conte is realistic about adding depth to the squad and the former Juventus boss suggested he needs to add more players to achieve a feat at Stamford Bridge.
“We must be very pleased for the achievement we have reached now, but it is logical that I look with my club for a solution to arrive in a good position at the end of the season,” Conte said.
“I do not know what will happen in January but in this situation, it is important to talk with my club. We have a fantastic relationship. I have my idea, but I prefer to discuss this with the club.” said the Blues manager.
A few big names that have been linked to the club are PSG’s Marco Verratti and Real Madrid’s James Rodriguez. Verratti is a top target for Conte and the Blues are plotting a £30 million bid for the 24-year-old. However, it would be tough to lure Verratti to Stamford Bridge at such a low price given that his contract expires in 2021.
Meanwhile, James Rodriguez has hinted that he wants to leave the Santiago Bernabeu next month and Chelsea are one club that are trying to get the Colombians signature.
Conte has a busy month scheduled ahead of him and despite his side’s sumptuous form, in which they have gone on an 11 game win-streak; Conte insists that they are aspects of the game where Chelsea needs to improve.
“I think we could have scored more goals against Crystal Palace on Saturday, but we only got one, and it was the same at Sunderland,” added Conte. “We can improve and be more clinical because when you have this type of game you are at risk until the end.”