Chelsea are exploring defensive options to bolster their squad following injuries to key centre-backs Wesley Fofana and Benoît Badiashile. The club is considering a move for Marc Guéhi, a former academy product who left Stamford Bridge in 2021 for Crystal Palace. Guéhi, now an England international, has been a standout performer for Palace and was close to joining Newcastle last summer. However, the deal fell through due to disagreements over a fee believed to be around £70 million. Chelsea are contemplating whether to make a substantial bid to test Palace’s resolve, particularly as Guéhi has only 18 months left on his current contract.
The potential departure of Guéhi would be a significant setback for Palace, who are battling relegation. Losing their defensive stalwart would create a challenge for their manager, Oliver Glasner. Chelsea, on the other hand, are keen to strengthen their defensive line despite already having several options. Axel Disasi, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Levi Colwill remain available, with Colwill forming a strong partnership with Fofana earlier in the season. However, Fofana’s long-term injury and Badiashile’s unavailability this month have created a sense of urgency.
In addition to targeting Guéhi, Chelsea are considering recalling Trevoh Chalobah from his loan at Crystal Palace. Chalobah, a versatile defender, has impressed during his time at Selhurst Park but is reportedly hesitant to return to Stamford Bridge after being sidelined last summer. Palace are also eager to retain his services. Other options for Chelsea include young talents Josh Acheampong, who recently made his first league start, and Aaron Anselmino, who has been recalled from a loan spell at Boca Juniors. Both players, however, lack experience at the top level.
Chelsea have also been monitoring Sporting’s Ousmane Diomande and Benfica’s Tomás Araújo as alternative defensive reinforcements. The search for upgrades reflects head coach Enzo Maresca’s ambitions, even though some of the current squad members, like Disasi, may not be seen as long-term solutions. Speculation also surrounds Badiashile, who could seek a move in the future.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are focusing on potential outgoings to streamline the squad. Left-back Ben Chilwell is reportedly on the transfer list, while Renato Veiga has attracted interest from Napoli and Stuttgart. Torino are pursuing Cesare Casadei, an Italian midfielder who could leave this month. Additionally, midfielders Carney Chukwuemeka and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, who have struggled for game time, might be allowed to leave on loan.
Chelsea’s defensive reshuffle comes at a critical juncture in their season, with injuries testing the depth and quality of their squad. The potential acquisition of Guehi or other targets would not only address immediate concerns but also align with the club’s strategy of building a robust and competitive team for the future.
