Chelsea are expected to be active in the January window after failing to replace Enzo Fernandez in the summer. Now, the Blues have received a huge boost in an £18.75m battle with Arsenal.

Focus seems to be on the signing of a new midfielder. Reports this week suggest Chelsea have compiled a four-man shortlist, comprising of Alex Scott, Harrison Armstrong, Lewis Miley and Myles Lewis-Skelly.

But Chelsea have other gaps in their squad. Maxence Lacroix’s injury has highlighted the need for more central defenders, even if Mamadou Sarr and Honest Ahanor are out on loan. Cover is needed at no.10.

Chelsea receive unexpected Tomas Aranda boost

Chelsea have Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer as options in the no.10 role, but if Xabi Alonso continues to use a 3-4-2-1 system, Chelsea lack cover for the duo in attacking midfield. Tomas Aranda is an option.

One-time Argentina international Aranda has been linked with Chelsea for a while. Recent reports state that Chelsea, Arsenal and Napoli are keeping tabs, with a Boca Juniors release clause active in January.

But Argentine outlet TyC Sports say Aranda is already back in full training, little over two months after breaking his leg. There is a chance that Aranda could even play on Saturday against Defensa y Justicia.

Why Chelsea are interested in signing Tomas Aranda

Lionel Scaloni has already heaped praise on Aranda, having handed him an Argentina cap. His stats, though, aren’t particularly great – having a hand in just four goals in 32 appearances for Boca Juniors.

But delve a little deeper, and it is Aranda’s ability to dribble that has really caught the eye. He averages 3.51 progressive carries per 90, placing him in the 98th percentile among similar midfielders in Argentina.

That suggests he is particularly effective at moving possession into dangerous areas rather than keeping the ball circulating. He’s also ranked in the 99th percentile for ball recoveries, averaging 8.54 per 90.

Aranda’s ability with the ball, and his determination to win it back high up the pitch makes him an exciting asset that Chelsea would love to have acting as cover for the likes of Palmer and Rogers.