Rosenior has enjoyed a fine startplaceholder image
Rosenior has enjoyed a fine start | AFP via Getty Images
Chelsea could still make a big move for a defender this month, according to a report in France.
Chelsea are still said to be interested in striking a deal for a player they have spent the last week or so pursuing. The Blues have had a clear priority when it comes to strengthening this month, with centre-back the position of biggest need.
Enzo Maresca warned months ago that Chelsea would need a top-level centre-back to cover for the injured Levi Colwill, but the club denied that request and the relationship between the two soured.
Now that Liam Rosenior is in charge, Chelsea seem to have acknowledged the issue and have been willing to address it, though being willing to make a signing and being able to do it are two very different things. Rennes star Jeremy Jacquet was quickly identified as they main target, with the 20-year-old having impressed in Ligue 1.
But Rennes have stood firm and refused to sell, leading to what appeared to be a pivot from Chelsea. Reports have suggested that, with Rennes refusing to sell, Chelsea would instead pursue a pre-agreed summer deal.
The Blues then recalled Aaron Anselmino from Borussia Dortmund, suggesting they will leave the Jacquet deal alone this month. But in a fresh twist, L’Equipe have reported that Chelsea could indeed return with an offer this month, and that Rennes could end up accepting an offer if one arrives worth 50million euros or more, which is £43.3million.
The question then would be what Chelsea do with Anselmino, although there has been talk of reported interest from Bayern Munich. Time will tell what Chelsea do, but if they don’t move, it appears the Blues will look to agree a deal ahead of the summer, as they have done with many players over the last couple of years.
Anselmino is a capable player
Anselmino is only 20 years of age, but he is an exciting talent in his own right. Speaking after one of the defender’s performances early in the season, Borussia Dortmund boss Niko Kovac said: “Anselmino played a world-class game.
“That's why we brought him in. He's physically fit. He lacks rhythm. When you haven't played for a long time, you get cramps like that. But Aaron is physically in top shape."
Rosenior on Chelsea’s latest win
Chelsea have enjoyed a very bright start under Rosenior, and their latest win saw them defeat Crystal Palace. Speaking after the game, Rosenior said: “It was a top team performance away from home.
“What makes me so happy about Estevao’s goal was that all 11 men were behind the ball. That’s why he gets the space. The two second-half goals were great team goals. Some of our play, especially in the second half, was magnificent through the lines. It will improve with repetition. I like to see a change of speed but I also like to see intensity and hard work, and I was really pleased with those aspects.
“From Joao Pedro pressing, to Pedro Neto and Estevao, the two midfield players, Andrey Santos tactically, and then the defenders had to defend really well against the presence of [Jean-Philippe] Mateta. I’m so happy with the whole team.”
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