Chelsea are forever linked with uber-expensive targets such as Erling Haaland and Declan Rice. While there's little doubt in their talent and quality, is there a case to be made for some cheaper signings without a significant loss of quality?
At least, that's what Chelsea supporter Tyler A. on The Athletic believes, suggesting the Blues should go for Southampton forward Danny Ings and Monaco midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni.
"As I Chelsea fan, I would be THRILLED (all caps completely appropriate on that sentiment) with a window in which Ings and Tchouameni were acquired on reasonable fees.
"Ings is a proven PL goal scorer. That move would still give Werner a chance to come good, allow Havertz to cameo as a 9 (though from CL and the Euros, Havertz looks lethal as a right forward), and potentially Broja could stay on as the early cup/reserve option, though I think a loan and guaranteed time may be best for his long term development.
"Key is how willing is Ings to take a rotation role rather than set starter, though at 29 and wanting to play CL, this may work for him and if Werner's struggles continue, he would be the "big match" striker.
"Tchouameni is an absolute monster in the making. I'm actually surprised Monaco is considering selling (they have CL and a stable ownership group), but if the Ligue 1 financial landscape works to Chelsea's advantage, that call should be made now.
"Incredibly high upside player who can be either a driving or holding 6 in the pivot. And while I think Rice is excellent, Tchouameni has similar quality and will likely come at less than half the fee West Ham would want."
The fan concludes: "Put plainly, I can argue [such a transfer] window is better for the club than Haaland and then the drama of his likely move in 3-5 years."
