While speculation continues to swirl over the identity of Chelsea's new permanent manager, one thing that seems certain is that Chelsea's squad will receive significant overhaul this summer.
An FA Cup triumph and an appearance in the Champions League final has done little to persuade the hierarchy at Stamford Bridge that the revitalization of the side, begun under Andre Villas-Boas, does not need to be continued.
Marek Hamsik is likely to have figured strongly on the list of Chelsea's targets this summer having been on their radar for some time. But the Slovakian offensive midfielder claims he is eager to remain with Napoli.
"My desire is to remain and win with the Napoli jersey," Hamsik told Italian newspaper Il Mattino, according to theIndependent.
And it could be that Chelsea is also thwarted in their attempts to sign another player long pursued by the club, Lucas Moura.
The talented 19-year-old Brazilian is in much demand in Europe withReal Madrid also said to be extremely keen on the offensive midfielder.
But the skillful Brazil international has said he is happy in his homeland for the time being.
"I have much time left," he said, according to TalkSport. "My intention is to stay here, in this shirt, and continue with the national team."
With the increasing economic strength of Brazilian soccer, even an offer in excess of £20 million may not be enough to persuade Sao Paulo to sell at this stage.
The Blues may also be set for a battle with La Liga winners Real over the signing of Gregory van der Wiel. The Ajax right-back has been mentioned in connection with a move to Chelsea several times in the past few seasons. And TalkSportclaims that Real and Roma will do battle with Chelsea for his signature this summer.
The right-back position has long been an area of concern at Stamford Bridge. Branislav Ivanovic has spent much of his time there and, while largely impressive, remains more naturally suited to center-back. The other contender for the position, Jose Bosingwa, has failed to convince since his big money move from Porto four years ago.
With that in mind Chelsea has also identified Borussia Dortmund right-back Lukasz Piszczek as a possible signing. Tribal Football references reports in Spain claiming that Chelsea had previously reached a verbal agreement with the player's agent about a move come the summer. However, interest from Real Madrid is now said to be threatening to scupper that deal.
Chelsea may have more luck in their attempts to sign Lazar Markovic.
The 18-year-old has just been voted player of the year at his club Partizan Belgrade and has scouts from many of Europe's leading clubs keeping close tabs on him.
But the Serbian international has already expressed his desire for a move to stamford Bridge. And with former Chelsea boss Avram Grant currently in-charge of Partizan, he may also steer the player toward West London.
The Daily Mail reports that Chelsea will have to battle with Liverpool and Tottenham for the £16 million-rated attacking midfielder.
In similar mold to Markovic, Crewe teenager Nick Powell is also reportedly interesting Chelsea, according to the Daily Express. The highly-rated 18-year-old has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs including Manchester United and Arsenal.