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

Centre Back - Nathan Ake

AFC Bournemouth v Manchester United - Premier League

Chelsea have been short of defensive options this season, with Antonio Rudiger yet to complete a single game. Andreas Christensen has also been injured for a considerable period, leaving Kurt Zouma and young Fikayo Tomori fit to play.

Nathan Ake, who has been crucial to Bournemouth's success in the last two years, has been linked with a return to Chelsea. When Chelsea sold Ake to Bournemouth in 2016, they included a clause in his contract that states that if the Cherries wish to sell him in the future, Chelsea will have first rights to buy him back.

A fee reported to be around the £40-50 million region was also negotiated, as part of the deal. However, with both Christensen and Rudiger edging closer to returning and Azpilicueta able to slot into central defence if necessary, it would not be wise to buy another centre back as all the current defenders are good options when fit.

Waiting till the summer to strengthen this area of defence will give Lampard time to sort out his order of preference and assess the defenders over a season, thereby allowing him to make an informed decision as to whether or not Chelsea need another centre half.