Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca is determined to strengthen his squad this January, with midfield reinforcements high on the agenda. 

According to Simon Phillips via Substack, the Italian tactician “wants a new centre-back this month, and also midfield cover.”

The report highlights Maresca’s concerns over the heavy workload placed on Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo, who have been pivotal for Chelsea this season. It states: “Maresca is worried about Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo having to play so much, and Romeo Lavia has not yet been reliable enough and suffers with constant injuries.”

Romeo Lavia, a summer signing, has struggled to make an impact due to recurring injuries, leaving Maresca exploring alternatives to ensure adequate depth in midfield.

The report adds: “At this point, we wouldn’t be surprised if one of Lesley Ugochukwu or Andrey Santos is recalled from their loan moves.”

Both Ugochukwu and Santos are currently on loan, but their return could provide Maresca with the options he needs to alleviate the pressure on his key midfield duo. However, the possibility of new signings in January cannot be ruled out as Chelsea aim to address the situation decisively.