Chelsea got in five players this summer strengthening almost all their positions spending more than £200 million. And their long loan list suggests manager Antonio Conte will have real trouble picking his 25-man squad next season and could end up selling some real gems.
Here are three loanees who could shine this season-
Kurt Zouma- The French centre half has a humongous season ahead of him given next year is the World Cup year. Getting into the French national squad seems to be a difficult task at the moment but Zouma has previously broken into the senior team, which indicates that the Lyon-born centre half has the qualities to play at that level.
And Chelsea have done a huge favour by sending him to a side that takes defence very seriously. Stoke City’s three-man defence consisting of Zouma, Bruno Martins Indi and Kevin Wimmer, could be better than most Premier League clubs already. Under the expertise of veterans like Rayan Shawcross and Geoff Cameron, Chelsea could get back a world class centre half next summer.
Ruben Loftus Cheek- One of the most promising academy products of Chelsea Football Club, the English international had shown glimpses of his abilities from the midfield. The giant of a player has been immensely productive for England’s Under 21 side since making his debut in 2015, scoring seven times in 17 caps.
With his big frame and pace on the ball, he could be fitted in any role in the central midfield, whether it’s playing the anchor role, creating chances up front or just playing as the hassler. Under Frank De Boer, although he has seen regular chances, he isn’t really getting used efficiently yet. However, the Eagles have the likes of Luka Milivojevic, Yohan Cabaye, Jason Puncheon, Wilfred Zaha (currently injured) in the midfield, who are a decent bunch and will give the much-needed experience to the player.
Tammy Abraham- The English football system is thrilled with this prospect owing to his phenomenal ability to score and tenacity on and off the ball. At 19, Abraham is already better than most players his age and he has started showing it at the Swansea City camp. He has scored twice in four games for the Swans in all competitions this season and with a manager like Paul Clement guiding him, he can only improve.
Chelsea are having a small crisis up front with Alvaro Morata as the only quality striker in the eyes of Antonio Conte. Michy Batshuayi doesn’t seem to enjoy the trust of his manager while Diego Costa remains in exile. A good season here and Abraham could see himself having a real break at Stamford Bridge next season.
