Chelsea want to sign French right-back in January amid Reece James injuries

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Reece James is yet to play a game for Chelsea this season because of another injury problem.

It could now see Chelsea sign a new right-back in the January transfer window, with this obviously not being Reece James‘ first fitness issue.

Malo Gusto has also missed a couple of matches because of injury, so right-back has been a problem position for Enzo Maresca during this early part of his Chelsea career.

However, Gusto has returned to fitness and could play against Barrow in the Carabao Cup tonight.

• READ MORE: Enzo Maresca admits he has no idea when ‘quality’ Chelsea player will be fit again

Chelsea keen on Kiliann Sildillia

Chelsea have a large French contingent at the club, consisting of the likes of Gusto, Wesley Fofana and Christopher Nkunku.

And it could be about to get even bigger amid reported interest in Freiburg’s Kiliann Sildillia.

According to Jeunes Footeux, Chelsea are thinking about signing Sildillia when the transfer window reopens in January.

Sildillia wanted to leave Freiburg during the summer when Marseille were interested in him, as reported by the reliable Fabrizio Romano.

But in the end, he remained in Germany, giving Chelsea an opportunity to sign him in the new year.

As well as a right-back, Chelsea could also sign a new striker in 2025. Chelsea have Ollie Watkins on their radar after his fantastic 2023/24 campaign.

In 53 appearances for Aston Villa, the England international scored 27 goals, with 19 coming in the Premier League.

Why Chelsea should consider signing Kiliann Sildillia

At this point, Chelsea can just not rely on James. Being club captain and a graduate from the academy, it is disappointing that supporters are not getting to see the 24-year-old on the pitch.

But it is the reality at Chelsea right now and why the club need to consider signing another right-back like Sildillia.

Maresca tried to use Axel Disasi at right-back against Bournemouth, but that cannot be a long-term solution.

There is a lot to like about Sildillia. He is quite strong in the air for a full-back, for example.

As per FBref, the Frenchman has ranked in the 88th percentile for aerial duels won among his positional peers over the last year. One more James injury, and Chelsea have to seriously consider putting an offer on the table for Sildillia if they are not already.