Chelsea Transfer News: Blues Reportedly Plan January Move for Aleksandr Golovin

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is planning to bid for CSKA Moscow midfielder Aleksandr Golovin during the January transfer window, according to Alan Nixon of The Sun.

Golovin could cost £15 million, but Abramovich is confident about being able to sign one of the stars of his native Russia.

If a deal does go through, Nixon outlined the decisions Abramovich would have to make about the remainder of the 21-year-old's season:

"He could either bring him into the squad for Antonio Conte in January or send him back to his homeland on loan for the rest of the season.

"Golovin, 21, is tipped to be the hosts' leading light at the World Cup, and Chelsea want to tie him down now rather than face an auction if he does well.

"However, Abramovich is also conscious of the fact that Golovin needs to play in the second half of the season, so he could be bought and then left in Russian club football."

As to what the future would hold for Golovin in the longer term, Nixon pointed out he might be "groomed to take over from Cesc Fabregas in time."

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Succeeding Fabregas would make sense as they are both midfielders whose games are based on technique, vision and creativity. The former Arsenal man has brought those qualities to bear for Chelsea this season, scoring twice and providing four assists while making 19 starts across the Premier League and UEFA Champions League.

One reason the 30-year-old is playing more often is manager Antonio Conte's willingness to start three central midfielders. The Italian has tweaked the 3-4-2-1 formation Chelsea used to win the title last season to a more rigid 3-5-2 setup.

It's meant the Spain international starting alongside N'Golo Kante and Tiemoue Bakayoko in the middle more often. There isn't another central playmaker in Conte's squad with Fabregas' keen eye for a pass, so Golovin could be a useful addition.

A lot will depend on how much Chelsea are willing to compete for his signature. Nixon noted the Blues' Premier League rivals, Arsenal, are also keen.

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Last month, Russian football agent Sandor Varga told Sport Express (h/t Alex Wood of the Daily Star) both the Gunners and La Liga giants Barcelona were showing interest.

If Chelsea are serious, Abramovich's influence could prove key to signing a precocious talent who would offer qualities that are rare among Conte's midfield options.