Chelsea missed out on two major summer signings last summer due to uncertainty over manager Antonio Conte's position.
The London Evening Standard says two unnamed players chose not to move to Stamford Bridge due to concerns over Conte's long-term future.
While there was no official word from Chelsea, doubts over the Italian's future were a major factor in them deciding not to join the Blues.
After defeat at West Ham, Conte again declared they needed to buy in January.
He said: “I can give my opinion to my club and also I speak with my club. I can give my opinion but the final decision is for the club. It is right to be in this way."