Infuriated by Liverpool setting the world record transfer fee paid for a goalkeeper, Chelsea moved to blow serious cash on a new shot-stopper after their trust number one headed out the door.
See how we rated Chelsea’s summer transfer window.
Arrivals
Kepa Arrizabalaga replaces Thibaut Courtois, and not cheaply. £72 million was enough to trigger the release clause in the Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper’s contract, and he makes the trip to London with a great amount of pressure to perform from day one.
New boss Maurizio Sarri came from Serie A giants Napoli, and brought defensive midfielder Jorginho with him. The Brazilian’s presence will ease the transition from outgoing manager Antonio Conte’s playing style to Sarri’s, pulling the strings from deep.
As part of the deal that sent Courtois to Real Madrid, midfielder Mateo Kovacic travels the other way on a season-long loan. With a high number of midfielders now in his squad, it will be interesting to see how Sarri distributes playing time.
Departures
Courtois forced his way out of Stamford Bridge in the end, failing to show up after the World Cup. With just one year left on the Belgian’s contract, Chelsea still did well to command £31 million for the colossal gloveman, in addition tot he Kovacic loan.
The usual mass Chelsea loan exodus continued true to form, with seven players securing moves in the window.
Eden Hazard has not moved yet, although numerous foreign clubs remain interested in signing the winger.
What more could have been done?
Some would argue Chelsea needed to sign a striker in the transfer window. Alvaro Morata will attempt to resurrect his Blues career under Sarri this year, with World Cup winner Olivier Giroud also likely to command first team minutes. A fruitful loan spell for Michy Batshuayi in the Bundesliga may also set him up for a successful return. Rumours had linked Gonzalo Higuain with a move to London to reunite with Sarri, before Milan jumped in to loan the Argentine.
Final Grade: B-
Losing Courtois was a serious disappointment for Chelsea, but the arrival of Kepa will go some way to easing that sadness. Kovacic and Jorginho could create a midfield to be reckoned with along with N’Golo Kante, but don’t be surprised if Chelsea are in the market for a striker come January.
