We still need a 'couple of players' in transfer window

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is already planning to strengthen his all-conquering squad of Premier League champions and he has targeted 'a couple' marquee signings to turn his champions into a dream team.


The runaway league leaders will be confirmed as champions if they beat Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, yet serial winner Mourinho is already eyeing up improvements to his team for next season.

Mourinho has only used 22 players in a wonderfully consistent Premier League campaign that is certain to end in glory and he is keen to keep his squad number tight while continuing to add to their quality.

"We need a couple of players to give more strength and depth to the squad," believes the Chelsea boss. "We want to keep the same number of players and have a more uniform group in terms of not quality but experience, to give us that little bit of extra in case we progress in the Champions League."
Mourinho went on to hint he may look to bolster his forward line, in a season that has seen lead striker Diego Costa struggle with injuries and back-ups Loic Remy and Didier Drogba also spending time in the treatment room.

Diego Costa's injury troubles have left Chelsea short-handed up front at times this season.

Chelsea's exit from the Champions League at the last-16 stage ensured they could get through the season without a major injury crisis, but Mourinho wants to ensure he does not leave himself short next year.

"The group of the strikers did very well for us, but I just imagine that it is something we can do in a different way," he added.

"I just imagine this last period of the season only with one striker. Imagine in this moment if we have only had Didier to play Champions League, Premier League, Champions League, Premier League. It would be a difficult situation.

"We were unlucky to have two strikers injured at the same time. When you have three, one can be injured or suspended, but when you have two out it can be difficult."

Mourinho has confirmed that Costa may not play again this season as he continues to nurse a hamstring injury, with Drogba's future at the club set to be resolved this summer when the veteran striker discusses his future with Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich.