Chelsea are now being linked in the transfer rumour mill with a Champions League defender.
Chelsea are such a free-scoring side this season under Enzo Maresca, which is why they’re blowing a lot of teams away. However, some people still question whether their defensive line is good enough.
In 16 Premier League games this season, the Blues have conceded 19 goals, only keeping three clean sheets.
Chelsea are looking for a versatile defender in January to help bolster their backline. Ideally, they want someone who plays centre-back but can cover at right-back as well.
Eric Garcia of FC Barcelona runs with the ball during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and CD Leganes at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Compan...
Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images
Chelsea keen on Barcelona star Eric Garcia
According to FootballTransfers, Chelsea and Newcastle United are both interested in signing Barcelona’s Eric Garcia.
It is explained that Barcelona are open to allowing Garcia to leave the Camp Nou in January for around €25m (£21m).
The report says that the 23-year-old centre-back is on Chelsea’s radar as they eye defensive recruits. In fact, they’ve expressed their interest in the Barcelona player.
Meanwhile, Newcastle are also keen on bringing the central defender back to the Premier League following his previous spell playing for Manchester City as a youngster.
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Even though Garcia may be available to purchase in the New Year, the Spanish star has still played 12 games across all competitions this season for Barcelona. This has included minutes in both La Liga and the Champions League.
Xavi described Barcelona youngster Garcia as “extraordinary” in 2023, as quoted by Transfermarkt. However, he’s got such stiff competition for a starting position at the club.
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On paper, Garcia could be a really useful mid-season addition to Chelsea’s squad.
If the Blues ramp up their interest and sign the Spanish centre-half for around £20m, it could represent real value for money in a promising defender that should only get better.
Jamie Carragher thinks Chelsea need another goalkeeper and centre-back before they can realistically win the Premier League crown.
While Garcia may need be a world-class defender just yet, he could be a smart pick up for the defensive group.