Chelsea are well known for signing young players and loaning them out to various clubs, and there is a lot of talent in the Football League that the Blues could potentially sign.

The Premier League champions have done this recently, with the signing of Michael Hector - the Londoners signed Hector and then immediately loaned him back to Reading.

It's clear for all to say that Chelsea's squad is ageing, with players such as John Terry, Branislav Ivanovic, and Gary Cahill probably coming towards the end of their careers with Chelsea.

Therefore, investing in players for the future, potentially from the Football League, will be vital for them.

Although the reality is these players will be loaned out if bought in January, there are plenty of Championship stars that have the potential to play at the highest level in the future.

Here's FIVE players that Chelsea should definitely consider signing in January!

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PRESS THE IMAGE BELOW TO SEE THE FIVE PLAYERS

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Sam Byram

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Byram is one of the brightest talents in the Championship, and could even potentially be the answer to Chelsea's problems at right back.

Despite being only 22, Byram has made over 100 appearances for Leeds, which is testament to how much talent he has.

A modern full back in every sense, the Leeds born player likes to attack, and has great crossing ability.

Despite this, he may need to improve defensively if he is to make the grade at a top club like Chelsea.

Jose Mourinho's side may face competition for the defender however, with Manchester United rumoured to be interested in him.

Demarai Gray

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Demarai Gray is a winger who has outstanding talent for his age, and one that Chelsea should definitely take a look at.

Gray is only 19, but has made over 50 appearances for Birmingham, and has been a big part of Birmingham's success this season.

The Birmingham born winger has also impressed for his country at youth levels, having played for England under 18's, 19's and 20's.

A quick, direct winger, Gray possesses a great ability to get past players with ease.

However, one area Gray may have to improve in if he wants to play in the Premier League is his ability to score goals. Gray has a very modest return of eight goals from 61 league appearances for Birmingham.

Dominic Iorfa

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Dominic Iorfa has burst onto the scene in the past year or so for Wolves.

The full-back has been a key part of Wolves' backline this season, making 13 appearances for Kenny Jackett's side.

The Southend-born player also boasts a call up to the England under 21's and a Young Football League Player of the Month award in January 2015.

One of the player's key strengths is his athleticism, Iorfa is very quick and also very strong. Despite this, he is still a very raw talent, so in reality, he should be exposed to more first team football before signing for a top club like Chelsea.

Will Hughes

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Hughes is a talent that has been tipped to play at the top level for a few years, but hasn't yet made the step up.

Although the attacking midfielder is currently recovering from a long-term injury, he has showcased his talent in recent years.

The 20 year-0ld has amassed an impressive 122 league appearances for Derby, after making his debut for the Rams in 2011.

Known for his close control and intelligent vision, Hughes would definitely suit the technical nature of the Premier League.

However, it is a well known fact that Jose Mourinho likes his players to be able to contribute going forward and defensively, so Hughes would have to improve on his defending to be successful at Chelsea.

Moussa Dembele

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Dembele has really made his mark this season for Fulham, having scored six goals in 13 appearances for Fulham.

The striker has also made his mark internationally for his country, France, having represented them at every single youth level.

Dembele has even made two appearances in the Premier League for Fulham. Despite this, the Frenchman is only 19 years of age, so the best solution for Chelsea if they was interested in the youngster, would be to purchase him and loan him out to gain more first team football.