Chelsea’s focus has been on improving their attack, but the Conference League winners could also sign a defender or two before the transfer window closes.
Earlier this month, Chelsea brought in Liam Delap from Ipswich Town to bolster their options up front and are currently targeting Jamie Gittens as they look to strengthen out wide.
Bayern Munich are also interested in his signature, but Chelsea are determined to sign Gittens this summer.
Once they get the Borussia Dortmund star or another winger through the door, they could then turn their attention to bringing in a new central defender.
- READ MORE: Chelsea hope to negotiate £42m deal for defender who is a better passer than Levi Colwill
Enzo Maresca thinks Ousmane Diomande would be a top defensive addition
One centre-back whom Chelsea could sign during this transfer window is Sporting Lisbon’s Ousmane Diomande.
Chelsea have shown interest in Diomande before, and the 21-year-old still appears to be on the club’s radar.
According to CaughtOffside, Chelsea are still keen on Diomande, with Enzo Maresca believing that he is one of the best additions the Blues can make to improve their defence.
Diomande was a key player for Sporting last season, making 46 appearances in all competitions. Rui Borges will be desperate to keep hold of him, but if Chelsea come knocking, he may be powerless to stop the Ivorian from leaving.
| Ousmane Diomande’s 2024/25 stats | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Yellow cards | Red cards |
| Portuguese League | 31 | 2 | 0 | 6 | 2 |
| Champions League | 9 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Portugal Cup | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Allianz Cup | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Super Cup | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Total | 46 | 2 | 0 | 8 | 2 |
Chelsea are also reportedly interested in Jorrel Hato, so the Ajax youngster is another option for them.
Chelsea’s Premier League rivals currently leading race for Ousmane Diomande
While Chelsea may hold an interest in Diomande, it is one of their Premier League rivals who appear to be at the front of the queue for the Ivory Coast international.
A report from BBC Sport claims that Crystal Palace are in talks with Sporting over a deal for Diomande.
It also states that Diomande is currently valued at around £40m, which is more than a reasonable price in this current market.
At 21, the former Midtjylland man has a lot of potential. He could go on to develop into a top centre-half one day.
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