Premier League 2019-20: Potential transfer targets for Chelsea if their ban is revoked

On the 20th of November, the Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS) will hear an appeal from Chelsea regarding their two-window transfer ban. CAS is an institution that is independent of any sports organisation and governing body. They are regarded as the Supreme Court of sport and help settle sports-related disputes through arbitration or mediation.

In the summer of 2019, Chelsea were handed a transfer ban by FIFA due to the illegal transfer of players under the age of 18. Following this decision, the Blues appealed to the CAS, and this appeal will be heard on November 20th. Given that Chelsea were guilty on 71 counts, it is unlikely that the ban will be overturned.

However, it is still a possibility, which would mean that they would be allowed to conduct business in the January transfer window. This news has excited many fans around the world, but should Chelsea fans hope for the ban to be overturned in January?

It is most definitely true that there are several areas where the club could strengthen, but is January the best time to do so? An analysis of the positions that need to be strengthened as well as the potential transfer targets in those positions shows that Chelsea fans shouldn’t be disappointed if the ban is not overturned.

Getting the ban overturned will surely be good for Chelsea as they missed out on the chance to strengthen the squad in the summer. If they are successful in their appeal, they should only look to strengthen those areas that are necessary and will help them push for a top 4 finish this season. They should save the rumoured 'big splurge' for the summer of 2020 as more players and clubs will be open to moves which will allow them to their secure their top transfer targets.