1. Andrey Santos (Strasbourg, Ligue 1) – Strongest Contender for a First-Team Role

• Position: Central Midfielder
• Stats: 7 goals in 21 league appearances, most tackles per 90 mins in Ligue 1.
• Why He Could Return: Provides box-to-box physicality that Chelsea have missed since Conor Gallagher’s departure.
• Manager’s View: Strasbourg coach Liam Rosenior calls him "Brazilian but doesn’t play like one", likening him to Dunga.
• Verdict: A likely option for Maresca’s midfield next season.

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2. Renato Veiga (Juventus, Serie A) – A Potential Defensive Option

• Position: Centre-Back
• Why He Could Return: Juventus boss Thiago Motta sees him as a strong ball-playing centre-back, aligning with Maresca’s style.
• Challenges: Juventus want to keep him beyond his loan spell.
• Verdict: If Chelsea see him as part of their defensive future, he could be integrated next season.

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3. Lesley Ugochukwu (Southampton, Premier League) – Defensive Midfield Depth

• Position: Defensive Midfielder
• Why He Could Return: Struggled under Russell Martin but is now playing regularly under Ivan Juric.
• Potential Role: Could provide cover for Moisés Caicedo and Romeo Lavia.
• Verdict: A squad option if Chelsea decide against signing another defensive midfielder.

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4. João Félix (AC Milan, Serie A) – Unlikely to Stay Long-Term

• Position: Attacking Midfielder/Forward
• Why He Might Return: Chelsea lack depth behind Cole Palmer, and Félix offers creativity.
• Challenges: Has yet to prove himself in high-pressure situations and expects a bigger role than Chelsea can offer.
• Verdict: May be sold or loaned out again.

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5. Djordje Petrovic (Strasbourg, Ligue 1) – Excellent Form, But Not a Tactical Fit

• Position: Goalkeeper
• Why He Might Return: Five clean sheets in Ligue 1, strong shot-stopping ability.
• Challenges: Not considered good enough with his feet for Maresca’s possession-heavy system.
• Verdict: Unlikely to return, with Filip Jörgensen and Robert Sánchez set to compete for the No.1 spot.

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