Conte's threadbare squad... as the new season approaches
Antonio Conte is understandably frustrated with Chelsea's activity this summer. Bakayoko's arrival relieved the pressure, but the Blues' squad currently has only 17 players.
After winning the Premier League last season, Conte's side are in need of reinforcements as they make a return to the Champions League. However, with less than a month to go, Chelsea have 17 first-team players on their books.
Not enough players for a matchday squad, and three of them are goalkeepers (Courtois, Caballero and Eduardo). A number of men are set to leave: Kurt Zouma has been spotted in Stoke while Nemanja Matic is keen on a move to Old Trafford.
Diego Costa certainly won't be a part of Conte's team, recently appearing on social media with an Atletico Madrid shirt to seal his fate. Youngsters such as Kenedy or Charly Musonda are not yet ready to take the definite step. Without including the outcasts and the teenagers who cannot be relied upon yet, Conte has 16 players at his disposal.
Antonio Rudiger arrived to strengthen the back line, while Tiemoue Bakayoko is a quality addition to the midfield, but the concerns are caused by a lack of strikers.
Plenty of talented playmakers to provide the passes, Hazard, Pedro and Willian among others, Michy Batshuayi might have to carry the responsibilty of scoring the goals in three competitions next season.