Following virtually no business last season due to the transfer ban imposed by the Court of Arbitration of Sport, Frank Lampard has not been shy in spending huge amounts as Chelsea look to challenge for the Premier League title this season.
The Blues, who have already spent £200million in this transfer window, begin their season on Monday as they travel to the Amex Stadium to face Graham Potter’s Brighton at 20:15.
German Duo to Give Chelsea Extra Boost
Chelsea’s philosophy since Roman Abramovich’s takeover in 2003 has been to spend huge amounts in order to win trophies, and this has largely worked with 18 trophies won.
Last season was the first year they were unable to spend, meaning new manager Lampard had to rely on younger players from the academy.
The likes of Mason Mount, Tammy Abraham, and Callum Hudson-Odoi were all afforded opportunities and impressed many, but the lack of experience ultimately cost them, particularly in the FA Cup final as they lost to Arsenal.
It has been a different story this summer as plenty of cash has been spent, with Timo Werner and Kai Havertz arguably the most eye-catching arrivals with both players having the potential to seriously spice up the Chelsea attack.
Havertz in particular is one of the most highly-rated young attackers in the world, having scored 18 goals in all competitions last season, and he can be backed at 8/5 to score anytime on Monday.
Seagulls Spend Wisely in Window
Brighton have been forced to spend wisely due to the financial impact of the coronavirus and they have only brought in two first-team players over the summer, but both could be regarded as bargains.
Adam Lallana joins on a free transfer following his departure from Liverpool, while Joel Veltman joins from Ajax after Brighton took advantage of an unusually low release clause in his contract of just £900,000.
Potter is keen for his side to continue with their expansive style of play and they will approach the game with no fear.
In last season’s meeting at the Amex Stadium, Brighton nicked a point late on in a 1-1 draw and are available at 33/10 to take a point in their opening game.
Rock Solid Blades Set for Another Good Season
Monday’s other Premier League clash sees two overachievers from the last couple of seasons face off as Sheffield United host Wolves at 18:00.
In their first Premier League season since 2007, the Blades were bold in their approach during the 2019/20 and caught many teams cold.
The unique, overlapping centre-back style of play won many plaudits and the Blades are not expected to struggle this term.
Their biggest concern was replacing goalkeeper Dean Henderson, who returned to Manchester United following his loan stay, but they managed to bring in Bournemouth stopper Aaron Ramsdale for £18.5million.
It looks like the Blades will rely on the same defence as last season, with Chris Basham, John Egan, and Jack O’Connell all taking to the Premier League very comfortably.
Chris Wilder’s men kept 13 clean sheets in the league last season and can be backed at 19/10 to stop Wolves from scoring.
Wolves’ Thin Squad to be Tested
Wolves are set for their third straight season in the top flight since earning promotion in 17/18 and they don’t have the added burden of the Europa League to contend with this time.
Nuno Espirito Santo is known for liking a small squad but this may be the season where they hit a brick wall.
To the surprise of many, long-serving full-back Matt Doherty was allowed to join Tottenham and the Irishman has not been replaced, which is surprising, to say the least.
Lyon defender Marcal and 18-year-old Portuguese star Fabio Silva have been drafted in but a couple of injuries in key positions could leave Wolves exposed.
A lot will depend on Raul Jimenez recreating his form from last season – the Mexican was outstanding as he netted 27 times across all competitions.
Punters can back him at 9/5 to score anytime on Monday evening.
*All odds correct at time of writing
