Chelsea currently have 10 senior centre-back options, including Levi Colwill, Mamadou Sarr, Wesley Fofana, Tosin Adarabioyo, Trevoh Chalobah, Benoit Badiashile, Josh Acheampong, Jorrel Hato, and returning loanees Aaron Anselmino and Axel Disasi (the latter unlikely to stay). Alonso is expected to trim the list and may pursue a new signing, with Jan Paul van Hecke identified as a target. Tottenham have already made two rejected bids for van Hecke, underscoring the ongoing competition for the Brighton defender.
Beyond acquisitions, several Chelsea players could depart to accommodate new signings or to free up space in the squad. Anselmino and Disasi face loan or permanent exits, while Chalobah and Adarabioyo are on contracts until 2028, with limited remaining terms. The club plans to retain key figures Colwill, Acheampong, and Hato, while Acheampong has been described as untouchable alongside other core players. The recent bid rejections for van Hecke are favorable for Chelsea as they pursue defensive reinforcements.
Key takeaways:
– Alonso must reduce Chelsea’s centre-back ranks and may sign Jan Paul van Hecke.
– Van Hecke is sought by both Chelsea and Spurs, with Brighton demanding a substantial fee.
– The club prioritizes keeping Colwill, Acheampong, and Hato, while pursuing exits for others like Anselmino, Disasi, Chalobah, and Adarabioyo to balance the squad.
