Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has suggested that his team will struggle to retain the Premier League title if they do not bring in more signings.
The Blues have so far recruited Antonio Rudiger, Tiemoue Bakayoko and Alvaro Morata, but they have lost some big names, including Nemanja Matic and John Terry.
The West London outfit also missed out on signing Romelu Lukaku, who opted for Manchester United, while target Danilo joined Manchester City.
The transfer window does not shut until the end of the month, but Chelsea's season will begin on Saturday when they take on Burnley at Stamford Bridge.
When asked by Sky Sports News during the Premier League launch if it will be difficult to win the title without his prime transfer targets, Conte said: "Yes, for sure. This league is not easy.
"It's different in other countries where there are two clubs fighting for the title. This league has six teams that are very strong and we have to be ready to fight for this season.
"We want to be competitive and fight for the title. I hope to try and work and improve our squad and our quality, and then be ready to fight for this season."
Last season, Chelsea won the crown by seven points.
Danielle Joynson
