Chelsea Transfer News: Latest Rumours on Jose Mourinho's Squad and January Plans

Chelsea's start to the 2014-15 Premier League has been blistering, to say the least, as Jose Mourinho's squad looks in excellent form early in the season. The January transfer window looks like it could be a quiet one at Stamford Bridge, but with the Blues, you never know what might happen.

Mourinho is one of the best in the world at identifying needs well before they establish themselves and unearthing young talent, and if the latest rumours are to be believed, Chelsea are already positioning themselves to be successful when the window opens.

Here's the latest buzz surrounding the Blues' plans for the January window.

Eden Hazard

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Mourinho expects Eden Hazard to sign a new long-term deal with Chelsea and continue his progression toward becoming an all-time great, according to the Press Association (h/t ITV). He appeared certain the Belgium international would put pen to paper soon:

"

His talent allows him to think about going from a top player to become one of the greats of his generation. We are very proud that he thinks Chelsea is the perfect environment for him to have that evolution.

That's why he wants to commit to us and we want to commit to him for the future too. It will be a question of time, but it will end with a new contract.

"

Hazard had an excellent match in midweek against Schalke 04, assisting Cesc Fabregas and routinely beating his marker. He missed several late chances to win the Blues the match, however, although The Independent's Jack-Pitt Brooke was still impressed:

The winger was one of Chelsea's top players in 2013-14 and already appears to be connecting with new arrivals Diego Costa and Fabregas. He may not be an elite scorer, but his darting runs put tremendous pressure on the defence, opening up space for his teammates.

The 23-year-old has long been touted as one of Europe's most versatile forwards, and his progression with the Blues has been steady and consistent. Locking him up to a long-term deal is a wise move, as plenty of other top clubs would love to poach the Belgian from Mourinho's squad.

Paco Alcacer

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Chelsea are reportedly one of the teams looking at Spain international Paco Alcacer, but according to talkSPORT, Valencia will attempt to convince their young striker to sign a new deal that will include a £40 million buyout clause.

Alcacer's current deal only carries a clause of £15 million, and following a sensational second half to the 2013-14 season and a strong showing with the Spanish national team, such a fee suddenly appears far too little for the 21-year-old.

A technically able striker with good size and athleticism, Alcacer shines with his vision and high work rate. ESPN FC's Dermot Corrigan argues he's already a better fit for Spain's team than current Chelsea striker Costa:

He has two goals and an assist in three La Liga matches for Valencia this season, per WhoScored.com, and has displayed remarkable consistency so far, despite his young age. Alcacer is being touted as the next great Spanish forward, and it's no wonder Valencia are doing everything they can to keep him.

A reluctance to sign his new deal would indicate he's ready to move in January but, given his age, another season with Valencia would be the right choice with an eye on his development.

Julian Brandt

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Bayer Leverkusen youngster Julian Brandt has caught the eye of a number of teams with a hot start to the 2014-15 Bundesliga season, with Chelsea sending scouts to watch the 18-year-old play, according to the Mirror's Darren Witcoop.

Brandt currently plays for Germany's U19 squad, but Bundesliga expert Clark Whitney believes he has a future with the senior side:

He fits the profile of the type of youngster Chelsea have chased in recent years, although it has to be noted the sample size scouts are going on is small. Brandt has the talent to be a phenomenal wide option, but he's still very raw and will need several seasons of consistent playing time to reach his potential.

Chelsea's loan policy has taken some criticism in recent weeks and while plenty of talented players will relish the chance to join the Blues, Brandt may not be one of them.

The young forward is in a perfect situation with Bayer, and he has no need to join another top club only to spend the first two seasons out on loan. The Bundesliga produces a steady stream of talent, indicative of their ability to nurture players like Brandt.

Don't expect him to leave the club in January, although the Blues will likely continue to keep tabs on his progression and possibly return in the summer.

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