Antonio Conte has finally begun to acquire the players he believes Chelsea need upon their return to the Champions League this season.

The Italian's frustration had grown during the off-season, after both Manchester City and Manchester United began making progress in the transfer market, but not the Blues.

After outlining his targets, Conte had to wait patiently before his first major signing followed free agent Willy Caballero through the doors at Stamford Bridge.

Antonio Rudiger was the first to arrive for £34 million from AS Roma, with Tiemoue Bakayoko's £40 million arrival from AS Monaco following exactly a week later.

Finally, after weeks of frustration and speculation that Conte could sensationally walk away from Chelsea after a single season, the club began to make progress in the transfer market.

Conte eventually signed a long-awaited two-year contract extension last week, quickly followed by the club-record £70 million arrival of Alvaro Morata. And it's probably no coincidence.

However, despite Chelsea's spending nearing the £150 million mark on just three signings, Conte publicly declared a warning to the club's hierarchy that they must continue to progress in the transfer market.

The former Italy and Juventus boss has declared that he expects more new arrivals at Stamford Bridge this summer, as the club prepares for their Champions League return.

It will be the first time the 47-year-old has managed Chelsea in the competition, having won the Premier League without European football last campaign.

Conte demands Chelsea bolster squad

And Conte is well aware that their extra commitments, on top of their summer departures, means Chelsea have no choice but to bring in further new signings.

“We need to improve the quality and improve the squad because next season will be very tough for us,” said Conte, per the Telegraph.

“We are 16 players, without the goalkeepers, and to face four competitions in a good way we need more players.

“We are in a moment where we have to create solid foundations for this club, we have lost a lot of big players that were fundamental at Chelsea."

Italian desperate to avoid 'dangerous mistake'

John Terry quit Chelsea at the end of his contract in search of regular first team football, having since joined Aston Villa, while youngsters Nathan Ake and Nathaniel Chalobah have also left, with Diego Costa surplus to requirements under the Italian.

“We can’t make a mistake because it’s very dangerous," Conte added. "I repeat, we need to improve and increase our squad and to be something important for the present but also for our future.

“I have spoken with the club, they know this situation very well and we are trying to find the right solution.”