Chelsea transfers: Too early to talk about January signings, says Benítez

Rafael Benítez has revealed he has spoken to Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich about the prospect of strengthening the Blues’ squad in January but insists he needs more time to identify potential targets.

The Blues have been linked with a host of big names in recent months, including Atletico Madrid forward Radamel Falcao and Shakhtar Donetsk star Willian.

Benítez, who has been appointed as Roberto Di Matteo’s successor until the end of the season, says he has warned Abramovich that his players run the risk of burning out as a result of a hectic fixture schedule.

But the Spaniard says it is took early to discuss specific targets for the forthcoming transfer window.

“The players were getting tired,” said Benítez. “You can’t give them a rest, either, because there’s no time.

“I told the owner this. We had a board meeting on Thursday and I explained what I’d seen, told them my ideas and gave them my explanation.

“They asked me my opinion on what we need [in terms of signings] in January. I said it was too early. I was pleased they were asking, but I need a couple of games.”