2. Nigel De Jong
Age: 27 Club: Manchester City Cost: + £10 million Maybe not one you were expecting on the list, but since the departure of Claude Makelele in 2008 Chelsea have struggled to find themselves a true holding midfielder. Widely regarded as the best player to ever play the position, it is probably unsurprising that the Blues have been unable to fill his boots despite numerous attempts with Michael Essien, John Obi Mikel and the young Oriol Romeu. Post-Makelele, Chelseas defensive record hasnt been as good as recent years, and if the European Champions want to regain the Premier League crown, a tough-tackling defensive midfielder is exactly what they need. De Jong, who seems keen to leave City this summer having fallen down the pecking order, has failed to renegotiate a new contract and has been identified by Inter Milan as a potential signing. The Dutchmans no nonsense tackling approach and his ability to play the ball as well, is at its best in the Premier League, and his experience and ability take him a level above the crop of players Chelsea have already in that position. The alternatives at Chelsea are simply not up to the job. Having watched Mikel over the past few years it is clear to see that he cannot make a forward pass, and spends more time facing his own goal than the oppositions. Moreover Michael Essien, at his best is a box to box midfielder bursting with energy, but since his injury has been unable to recapture the form that made him a £30 million midfielder. Finally Romeu, whilst looking a good prospect, is too young to be relied upon for the big games. De Jong has plenty of experience and can break up the play and distribute the ball well; exactly what Chelsea need.