Chelsea's scouts have now reportedly been spotted keeping close tabs on a Premier League star ahead of making a potential move in 2026.
Chelsea's January transfer plans
Enzo Maresca is gradually beginning to discover the best formula for success at Stamford Bridge. Without the injured Cole Palmer, the likes of Moises Caicedo and summer signing Joao Pedro have all stepped up - replacing one of the best players in the Premier League in the process. But, there is still something missing before the Blues can become serious title contenders.
As impressive as they are in midfield and going forward at times, Chelsea's backline still needs work. Amid a number of suspensions and ill-timed injuries, their lack of quality at centre-back has been particularly exposed.
Wesley Fofana, Tosin Adarabioyo, Trevoh Chalobah and Levi Colwill all represent solid options, but it's difficult to pick a leader out of any of those four players. That must change in 2026. Instead of setting their sights on yet another offensive addition, BlueCo should look to land a major defensive upgrade.
On that front, a number of players have already been linked with moves to West London. Among them is Ronald Araujo, whose Barcelona future continues to be thrown into doubt.
If the Blues are looking for a defensive standout then signing of La Liga's finest certainly wouldn't be a bad idea. Araujo would offer fresh experience to Maresca's backline whilst still performing at the peak of his powers at 26 years old.
He's not the only name mentioned in recent reports, however. The West London club have also been linked with a Premier League option, who shares an agent as Liam Delap.
Chelsea scouts spotted watching Ezri Konsa
As reported by The Boot Room's Graeme Bailey, Chelsea scouts have now been spotted watching Ezri Konsa, who has attracted interest from across the Premier League thanks to his performances at Aston Villa.
The England international is one of a number of players who could yet leave to ease Villa's PSR problems and, if that does prove to be the case, Chelsea could be lying in wait.
PL stats 24/25 Colwill Konsa
Minutes 3,149 2,936
Progressive Passes 131 90
Tackles Won 34 18
Successful Aerial Duels 121 97
Questions must be asked as to whether Konsa would solve Chelsea's problems, however. When compared to Colwill last season, it is the Blues' current star who stands out both in possession and out of it. The last thing that Maresca needs is simply a like-for-like player rather than an upgrade.
That said, the Villa defender has still earned plenty of praise over the years, including from former Manchester City star Micah Richards.
Konsa
The Sky Sports pundit had nothing but positives after Konsa's England performance against Switzerland at Euro 2024, saying: "Can you control your nerves? Can you do the basics very well?
"And he has done all of these things. I just think his overall game has been fantastic. He has been excellent, he really has.”