Later today, Chelsea host West Ham. Liam Rosenior said his side are ready to move in the final days of the transfer window if the right players are available. The Blues are in the market for a central defender and have been optimistic that a deal for a long-term target could be reached before the end of January.

A long-term injury to Levi Colwill which is likely to see him miss the whole season has left Chelsea short of options in the position, but it is understood no emergency cover is likely to be sanctioned with the club preferring to stick with their recruitment plans from before the England defender’s injury.

“The guys are working hard to stay on top of things in terms of information on what’s out there, who’s interested in our players,” said Rosenior. “It’s about being prepared for any development.

“Certain players come up that you don’t expect to come up, and then can strengthen you. Whether that’s a striker or a wide player or a defender. If we see something, I know the guys are willing to do it. I don’t want to bring in players for the sake of bringing in players. There’s a possibility it could be busy, a possibility it could be quiet.” PA Media