Graham Potter’s Chelsea’s XI next summer if Boehly issues go-ahead for four transfers.

Graham Potter’s Chelsea’s XI next summer if Boehly issues go-ahead for four transfers

Chelsea spent enormous sums of money on players like Raheem Sterling, Marc Cucurella, and Kalidou Koulibaly over the past summer, but with Graham Potter now in charge, the Blues’ starting XI could look a bit different next season.

We examine what Potter’s starting lineup could look like a year from now.

Goalkeeper: Mendy

Although Kepa Arrizabalaga has started the first two games under Graham Potter, Edouard Mendy is poised to retain his position as Chelsea’s No. 1 defender. Mendy has posted just one clean sheet in six Premier League outings so far this season.

Last season, he was voted the FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year. Next summer, Kepa may finally leave Stamford Bridge, allowing Chelsea to reinvest the proceeds elsewhere.

Defence: James, Torres, Koulibaly, Fofana, Cucurella

This summer, Antonio Rudiger and Andres Christensen have been replaced by Kalidou Koulibaly and Wesley Fofana in Chelsea’s back line.

Reece James and Marc Cucurella might be the starting fullbacks for the foreseeable future, while Ben Chilwell is also a formidable option on the left.

Thiago Silva has remained with the club, signing a one-year agreement, although it will be questioned whether he receives another contract.

Pau Torres has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League for a number of years, and Chelsea are rumoured to be on the hunt for his signing.

The Spain international has been a major contributor to Villarreal’s success over the past few seasons, but the La Liga club is running out of time to extend his contract and may have to sell him next summer.

Midfield: Alvarez, Jorginho, Nkunku

As a result of N’Golo Kante’s injuries and the paucity of alternatives, Chelsea’s midfield may undergo the most significant changes in the upcoming season.

Jorginho remains a vital component of the midfield trio, and if he does not push for a transfer, he will likely stay a regular starter.

Reports indicate that Chelsea are interested in reviving their pursuit of Edson Alvarez, a defensive midfielder who has won outstanding accolades for his play.

In recent years, the Blues have lacked a real goal threat from midfield, and Christopher Nkunku may be the solution to their troubles.

According to reports, Chelsea has already conducted a medical on Nkunku, and his adaptability might be a significant asset for Potter’s plans.

Attack: Sterling, Leao, Mount.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang could remain at Stamford Bridge for the upcoming season, but his status as a starter could hinge on how well he performs this year. It is unlikely that Raheem Sterling and Mason Mount would be replaced from the starting lineup.

However, Chelsea has apparently identified AC Milan’s Rafael Leao as their primary midfield target.

The 23-year-old has been used as a winger at the San Siro in recent seasons, but he began his career as a centre striker and would provide Chelsea with a diverse alternative.

According to rumours, Milan will not consider an offer below Leao’s release clause of £127 million.