Many people have asked just what happened this season? The talent was there; the tactics were seemingly right but to what end result? Most experts say that the problem was on a mental level. Chelsea lacked determination, lacked focus and the aggressive playing style that got them the Premier League trophy as perhaps many people thought just turning up as defending Champions meant they would win games – something that has happened before to many title winning sides. Repeating the feat is always much, much tougher and maybe some players just were not switched on to this. After the unfortunate departure of Jose Mourinho, Hiddink got things back on track to some extent but Chelsea still look to have work to do.

Conte’s arrival is expected to turn things around as his transfer list includes some players with big personalities. In order to bring those players to Stamford Bridge some of Chelsea’s current team members may have to leave. Rumours according to Metro, suggest stalwart Ivanovic is a possible target for Italian giants AS Roma even though the Serbian defender did sign a contract extension in January, keeping him at Chelsea until the end of the 2016-17 season. Ivanovic’s name came supposedly came up when Chelsea were originally meeting Roma sporting director Walter Sabatini to talk about Belgium international Radja Nainggolan who is expected to leave AS Roma and join the Blues as he was always one of Conte’s favorite Serie A players. We still feel Ivo will stay with Chelsea for the new manager to build around.

Roma’s midfielder, who will be turning 28 this May, is known for being the dominant figure across the midfield. He would be paired with Fabregas and he would bring a bit of everything. He is fast, strong but also has a certain finesse to the way he carries himself on the pitch. He can pass, shoot but also help the defense. Most importantly, he has attitude. He has certain moments when he reminds you of Gattuso who inflicted fear into any adversary. That’s what Chelsea need among other things. To take this even further, Nainggolan could end up playing next to his current teammate Miralem Pjanic who is also on Conte’s list. The two would not need a bonding period and would go great together down the middle of the pitch. Fabregas, Nainggolan and Pjanic with Hazard and Willian or Cuadrado on the wings might help turn things around for the Blues.