Chelsea are reportedly showing strong interest in signing a former Manchester City player, who is now seriously considering a move to the club in West London.
Chelsea’s Defensive Reinforcements Blues head coach Enzo Maresca has made acquiring a new center-back a top priority before the transfer deadline on February 3. This strategy has been in place for some time, even before injuries sidelined Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile.
According to trusted insider Simon Phillips, strengthening the central defense was Chelsea’s main focus for the January window as early as December. Several players have been linked to the club, including Benfica’s Antonio Silva and Tomas Araujo, along with Bournemouth’s Illia Zabarnyi and Dean Huijsen.
Additional Defensive Targets Chelsea are also eyeing moves for Barcelona’s Jules Kounde and Ronald Araujo. While these transfers may prove difficult to complete in January, they highlight the club’s commitment to revamping their defense.
Additionally, Chelsea are exploring the possibility of re-signing Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace, given the defender’s strong performances over the past year. The club is also keeping an eye on PSG’s Nuno Mendes as a potential left-back target if Renato Veiga seeks more playing time.
A Surprising Striker Target In addition to defensive options, Chelsea have identified Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap as a top target. Reports suggest the club has already had talks with Ipswich about signing the 21-year-old, who has impressed with eight goals and two assists this season under Kieran McKenna. Delap is reportedly open to a move, and Chelsea are “extremely keen” on securing the England Under-21 international. While a transfer in the summer is more likely, there’s still a possibility of a move in January, with Delap’s value set at £42 million.
Funding Transfers To finance their plans, Chelsea are prepared to sell several players, including Cesare Casadei, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Ben Chilwell, and Carney Chukwuemeka. Proceeds from these sales could fund a mid-season move for Delap or other key targets.
Looking Ahead As Chelsea approaches a crucial transfer window, the club’s focus on strengthening both its defense and attack signals their determination to improve their standing in the Premier League and on the European stage. Fans will be eagerly awaiting updates as the window unfolds.
