Chelsea are still in the market in search of a centre-back with the January window almost coming to an end. Discussions of Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet have not yet been finalized even after personal terms had been agreed upon. The French club has not been receiving a satisfactory value and structure in negotiations. Chelsea have identified other opportunities as time runs out. It is reported in Spain that there is an increasing interest in Real Betis defender Natan. An official bid is yet to be made. The case is not official and set in stone yet, although Chelsea is keeping an eye on the situation. There is allegedly financial confidence to take action when the need arises.
From Flamengo Roots to La Liga Maturity
Natan is a twenty four year old Brazilian centre-back who is currently in Real Betis. He started his senior career at Flamengo which has one of the most rigorous development setups in Brazil. Natan would subsequently take a spot in RB Bragantino, where regular performances helped him to climb faster. He was then signed by Napoli who had long term prospects but chances were low in Italy. It was followed by a transfer to Betis which provided regular minutes and tactical responsibilities. At La Liga, Natan has grown to become a physically robust defender who has excellent anticipation. Comfort in possession and calmness when there is a pressure is also exhibited by him.
Why Natan Fits Chelsea’s Defensive Blueprint
The interest shown by Chelsea is a constant defensive insecurity. It has been unable to be stable due to injuries, inconsistency, and constant squad turnover. This winter the club initially shortlisted three central defenders. Jeremy Jacquet topped that list with Marcos Senesi and Jacobo Ramon being among the considered ones. None of such pursuits have been made to progress successfully.
Natan suits the demand of Chelsea who prefers defenders who can run in a high line. The balance of the back line is created by his left sided profile. His flexibility is enhanced by experience in various leagues. Chelsea require defenders who can develop the play base on the deeper sides.
Chelsea’s Centre-Back Search and the Shift in Focus
Chelsea is a club that initiated Jeremy Jacquet negotiations earlier in the window. Rennes held a very strong position, which slowed the improvement. Other targets had not passed first checks. The interest in Natan was shown in the last days of the window. Spanish newspapers give a hint that a bid up to forty million euros can be welcome by Chelsea. The player also has competition with Real Madrid who monitor him. Any transaction would require a quick decision between clubs. Health examinations and forms do not provide time to lose and complicate the situation.
According to Spanish outlet https://t.co/0qbva90184, Newcastle United are interested in Real Betis defender Natan. 🇧🇷
The Magpies are among several Premier League clubs, alongside Arsenal and Chelsea, who have closely monitored the 24-year-old this season. Real Madrid are also… pic.twitter.com/cb63Rt27Wl
— TOON NEWS (@ToonNewsHQ) January 30, 2026
Decision Time as Deadline Pressure Builds at Chelsea
Chelsea has to make a choice between rushing negotiations and reconsidering plans. An official bid would make intentions clear-cut. The direction of the talks would depend on how Betis would respond. The intervention of Madrid might make the situation more complicated. In case no consensus is reached, then Chelsea can wait until summer before recruiting a defensive player. Short term needs could be met using internal options. The club is very careful following the talks. Recruitment team is still evaluating risk and urgency. Followers would want to see reinforcement, whereas the leadership would focus on long term planning. Value and judgement are usually perverted by deadline day pressure.
Chelsea seek to be enlightened, not alarmed. The decisive end will only be reached when circumstances are suited to sporting and financial goals as the negotiation stakes reach their definitive phase towards the end of the week before the window closes.
More on CHELSEA:
Follow Six Sports on