Chelsea have once again beaten off interest from their Premier League rivals in securing a new signing, with St. Etienne defender Kurt Zouma securing a £12 million to Stamford Bridge on deadline day.
The 19 year old has been loaned back to the French side until the end of the season, suggesting Mourinho is happy with his current defensive options as Chelsea continue to compete in three major competitions.
Given Chelsea’s interest, as well as that of a host of other top clubs, it is obvious Zouma is one of the hottest prospects in European football, but he must be wary of the impact the loan move which keeps him in France may have on his future in London. Chelsea’s record of youth development is pretty poor, and there are a number of big-name youngsters who have proven surplus to requirements once they actually arrive at the club.
Three examples – all involving Belgians – spring to mind. Kevin de Bruyne was signed in but only broke into the first team squad at the start of this season, and has already been shipped on to Wolfsburg for £17 million. Romelu Lukaku continues to impress wherever he plays – though this is never at Chelsea – and Thibaut Courtois, on loan at Atletico Madrid, looks like he will stay there despite already being one of the finest goalkeepers in Europe.
Zouma will hope to break into Jose Mourinho’s first team as soon as possible, so as not to follow in the footsteps of so many other potential superstars who sign for Chelsea.
Also Get the very Latest Football Transfer News, Rumours and Gossip direct to your email.