Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has been promised up to six signings this summer by the club's new owners as they eye a rebuild of the squad and challenge for the Premier League and Champions League.
After their £4.25 billion takeover of Chelsea, co-owner Todd Boehly has begun the consortium's plans to back Tuchel this summer amid a £200 million transfer budget for the head coach.
Targets have been identified by the Blues, with Jules Kounde and Raheem Sterling of high interest, while outgoings are being finalised, including the high-profile departure of Romelu Lukaku to Inter Milan which is expected to be confirmed next week.
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Boehly and co have identified the areas with Tuchel which need strengthening, confirming the defence and attack are being looked at, while the midfield is not a priority, for now.
A senior source told The Telegraph: "The key is to basically work with Tuchel to come up with the best players that are available.
"We really want to make sure we have a good defence. We've got depth in midfield. We're not desperate for an out-and-out striker.
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“Fortunately, there's reasonable opportunities in the market right now in order to satisfy the fans' desire to be competitive.
"I think it's a combination of moves and there's five or six that we're going to look to make.”
Plans are in place to ensure Chelsea mount a challenge in both the Premier League and Champions League next season.
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The new owners acknowledge the importance of both domestic and European success from both a supporter and commercial/global look.
The source added: "I think table stakes is Champions League qualification and then everything beyond that.
"Obviously from the English fans point of view, winning the Premier League is extremely important, and then from a global perspective, winning the Champions League is extremely important. Being in a position year in and year out to be competitive."
Contracts are also being finalised for players, with it being reported Reece James is set to be offered a new five-year deal at Stamford Bridge.
Boehly is currently in charge of the transfer dealings after putting himself in charge as sporting director on an interim basis while a full-time replacement is found - Michael Edwards, who left Liverpool at the end of the 2021/22 season, is among consideration.
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The American billionaire confirmed earlier this week following the board's restructure that work was already underway to ensuring Chelsea continued to win both on and off the pitch.
"As custodians of Chelsea FC, we now begin executing our long-term vision and plan for the Club, creating an outstanding experience for its passionate, loyal fans, and continuing to challenge for top honours in line with Chelsea FC's decorated history.
"Working together, side-by-side, we are firmly committed to winning, both on and off the pitch. For us, that effort has begun."
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Thomas Tuchel, Chelsea, Premier League, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Todd Boehly
