There is not much time left for Chelsea to make a signing during this transfer window, with it closing on Monday.
Chelsea had wanted to bring in a new midfielder and central defender, but that has proven extremely difficult.
Chelsea had Douglas Luiz on their radar, but he joined Aston Villa instead, while they have not been able to agree a deal with Rennes for Jeremy Jacquet.
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Liam Rosenior issues Douglas Luiz update
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At this stage, regarding the arrival of a central defender, Mamadou Sarr returning to the club appears to be the most likely outcome.
Strasbourg defender Mamadou Sarr with the ball
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Mamadou Sarr keen on Chelsea return
Chelsea are considering recalling Sarr from his loan from Strasbourg, and it looks like the 20-year-old would have no problems with that.
In fact, journalist Simon Phillips has claimed on Si Phillips Talks Chelsea that Sarr is keen on returning to Stamford Bridge before the transfer deadline.
According to Phillips, Sarr “loved” working under Liam Rosenior at Strasbourg and sees his future at his parent club, hence his desire to go back now.
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Mamadou Sarr
Mike Penders
Kendry Paez
Kendry Paez of Strasbourg during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between Racing Club de Strasbourg Alsace and Crystal Palace
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After taking Rosenior last month, Chelsea owners would likely infuriate Strasbourg supporters even further if they recalled Sarr.
However, BlueCo could at least compensate for recalling Sarr by sending Aaron Anselmino to the Ligue 1 outfit on loan. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has already reported that Strasbourg are the clear favourites to sign Anselmino after his return from Borussia Dortmund.
Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior greeting fans
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Why Liam Rosenior wants Mamadou Sarr back at Chelsea
From Rosenior’s perspective, it also appears that he wants a reunion with Sarr immediately.
Phillips has reported that the Chelsea manager has asked for a defender who can play out from the back and views Sarr as an ideal candidate.
Rosenior still has several other central defensive options, including Trevoh Chalobah, Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile.
There is also Josh Acheampong, who is not getting too many starts right now. With that in mind, you would have to question whether recalling Sarr is actually necessary.
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