The England international does bolster the Blues' midfield options, but many only consider him back up in an already well-equipped central midfield.
Squad depth was proving a major problem for Conte towards the end of this summer's transfer window, but he should now be able to rely on a strong core to carry his team through the season's heavy workload.
It can therefore be said that, Drinkwater was a very necessary purchase, a player who is not afraid to jump into tackles, is reliable on the ball and has the ability to offer creativity in the final third.
Conte looks set to stick with his favoured 3-4-3 system and is expected to name Kante and Tiemoue Bakayoko as the men responsible for marshalling Chelsea's midfield.
However, an injury to either or an impressive run of form could see Drinkwater hold down a regular spot in the starting XI.
Chelsea will fight on four fronts this season, the Premier League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup and Champions League meaning every player will be important for the Blues boss.
Here is a possible starting XI that includes £35m man Danny Drinkwater:
Courtois, Cahill, Luiz, Rudiger, Moses, Drinkwater, Kante, Alonso, Hazard, Willian, Morata.