Mauricio Pochettino has already set Chelsea transfer deadline ahead of January dilemma

As the January transfer window approaches and Chelsea’s roster continues to solidify, speculations abound regarding Mauricio Pochettino’s pursuit of new personnel.

The Premier League has already entered its fourth month and is approaching its third intermission of the season. Despite having only played 12 matches this season, Chelsea are already within striking distance of the January transfer window.

Given the Blues’ activity over the past three seasons and their £1 billion expenditure on players since Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital acquired the club, it would be reasonable to assume that the moment had come to assess the new-look squad. Nonetheless, this marks the initial transfer window during which Mauricio Pochettino has been present since the beginning to assist sporting administrators Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley in coordinating preparations.

The west London club’s search for a striker continues to be the subject of the most scrutiny since the summer regarding a particular position. With a total of seven goals scored this season, Nicolas Jackson has exhibited signs of improvement, including four in his last two matches.

Armando Broja returned from injury and scored a penalty for Chelsea in their 1-1 draw with Manchester City, while Christopher Nkunku is expected to return when domestic football resumes in the coming weeks.

When asked earlier this season whether he intended to acquire a forward. Pochettino declined. “Football is extremely dynamic,” he stated. Perhaps our thought processes were distinct two or three weeks ago. “We are actively collaborating with the sporting directors and owners to ensure that we are prepared. As soon as the transfer window opens, we will assess whether the team or squad requires additional players in the offensive position that we are discussing.”

The Blues have historically been cautious, with Pochettino being cognizant during the summer of preventing Broja from obtaining a pathway. The forward has had limited opportunity to demonstrate his abilities to his head coach on the field, despite scoring in his debut match against Fulham and converting a penalty kick as a late substitute against City due to injuries.

Although Chelsea have scored eight goals in their last two matches, the Blues have struggled to do so consistently, especially against opponents employing a low block. However, Nkunku may materialize at that juncture.

However, Chelsea have been associated with players such as Ivan Toney and Victor Osimhen. William Gallas, a former Chelsea defender, believes that could have a negative effect.

“A transfer of Victor Osimhen to Chelsea would undermine the confidence of players such as Nicolas Jackson,” he stated. It is imperative to exercise caution and give cautious consideration to the acquisition of a new striker. As previously stated, Jackson should complete the season for Chelsea to see how many goals he scores. We must also observe his progress. His qualities qualify him to do so. Chelsea should allow Jackson to begin his duties.”

“In my opinion, Chelsea should maintain their current roster.” “So many players have been purchased, and the team needs to become acquainted with one another,” Gallas continued.

Pochettino has repeatedly emphasized that his squad’s lack of expertise playing together necessitates that they continue to gain knowledge from one another. Even after the 4-4 stalemate with Manchester City, he continued to characterize his squad as “far removed” from the goals he had for them.

January, nevertheless, might present the Blues with a dilemma. Broja and Nkunku will be meticulously managed in the future weeks, and by the time 2024 rolls around, they may have truly realized their potential. Jackson has been the Blues’ primary forward, and it is highly probable that he will be sidelined for the African Cup of Nations for several weeks.

A lengthy absence is possible if Jackson is called up to represent Senegal and they achieve success. From January 13 to February 11, the tournament is being conducted, and his country emerged victorious in the preceding competition.

As Pochettino put it, “football is dynamic,” and the Blues’ planning for January could be determined by the fitness and form of Broja and Nkunku. Although they may wish to do so, they will need to operate efficiently if they are to compensate for Jackson’s absence.