Chelsea have been searching for new talent in their offense for much of the summer, and quite a lot of that search has centered around bolstering the midfield. However, that search saw its intensity ratcheted up several notches late last week, when Michael Essien injured his knee in training, putting him out for six months at best, if not longer.
Once that happened, the Blues threw the doors wide open on potential transfer targets, including one particular player that few expected to see them linked to: West Ham star winger Scott Parker.
Why is it so surprising? Because in 2004-05, Chelsea had Parker in the fold at Stamford Bridge, only to sell the midfielder to Newcastle.
But now, according to a report from Mirror Football, the Blues are seriously considering bringing Parker back via either a permanent transfer or a one-year loan, to help offset the loss of Essien.
The move makes perfect sense for the Blues; Parker is coming off the best season of his career, and remains an elite midfielder in the sport, capable of making plays, scoring goals and creating chances for teammates. He's an on-field leader, and is sure to boost the Blues' offensive output.
If Chelsea are wont to add a 30-year-old midfielder to the roster on a permanent basis, the idea of a one-year loan deal has been floated to the Hammers, and co-owner David Sullivan told Mirror Football he wouldn't rule that option out.
"I mean we would love a deal - and this has been mooted - that maybe we loan him out for the season for a substantial fee and then when we get promotion he comes back to us."
"That sort of deal would appeal to us because we love Scott."
Frankly, given Parker's age, a loan would likely be the midfielder's best option to stay in the Premiership next season. He'd be an excellent fit with Chelsea, where manager Andre Villas-Boas has had experience with him from his previous tour of duty at Stamford Bridge, and then could return to the Hammers when they return to the Premiership.
However, Parker is hardly the only option the Blues have. They've been chasing virtually every talented midfielder on the market, ranging from Daniele de Rossi and Wesley Sneijder to Luka Modric and Javier Pastore.
They're looking to get younger this summer, and as talented and skilled as Parker may be, he really doesn't help much in the youth department. On top of that, if Chelsea still have to pay to get him, they may opt for paying more money for a player they get on a permanent basis.
In the end, grabbing Parker is a logical move for the Blues, particularly on a loan, but I'm not sure it's going to happen. Chelsea have cast a very wide net in the search for Essien's replacement, and Parker is likely not their top option. However, as a loan for a season while they evaluate the Ghanian's chances of a full recovery, he could be a solid choice. Look to hear more about this intriguing, but unlikely move in the next few days, as Chelsea are anxious to find themselves help in the midfield.
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