Chelsea have reportedly identified the type of signing they want to make in the New Year, and it comes in defence.
When you look at the impressive start to the season, the Chelsea squad does look in a really healthy place right now. That’s emphasised by the fact that Enzo Maresca is making wholesale changes between the Premier League and cup competitions, but the results and performances are still positive.
While the Blues are free-scoring as an attacking unit, it’s fair to highlight there’s some issues at the back that need ironing out.
In 11 games across all competitions this season, Maresca’s side have conceded 12 goals. There’s no doubt that opposition teams are carving through them a little too easily at times.
Speaking via ESPN recently, Craig Burley insisted Chelsea’s defence must improve if they are to finish in the top four this season.
Chelsea want versatile defender
GiveMeSport now claims that their sources have told them Chelsea are on the search to sign a versatile defender ahead of the January transfer window.
It is explained that the Blues would like to find a profile who predominantly plays at centre-back but who can also provide an option at right-back.
The report says that the London club wants to strengthen their squad depth even further, particularly in defence because club captain and right-back Reece James has had frequent injuries to increase the work load on Malo Gusto at full-back.
A replacement for Trevoh Chalobah
The reality is that Chelsea are looking for someone in a similar mould to Trevoh Chalobah.
Chalobah, who was loaned out to Crystal Palace this summer, ticked the box at Stamford Bridge as a versatile defender to cover at centre-half or right-back. For what it’s worth, plenty of supporters weren’t pleased with the decision to get rid of him a couple of months ago.
The 25-year-old academy graduate was such a useful individual in the Blues group, similar to how Renato Veiga is right now.
We’ll be intrigued to see what names pop up in the transfer rumour mill from now until the January window.
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
