One thing is clear, Chelsea are looking to strengthen their back line in the immediate future as Levi Colwill’s torn ACL continues to leave them short on left-sided defenders. This was exacerbated by the recent injury to Tosin Adarabioyo with the Blues being in need of a left-footer to help them in the build up phase to move to the CCB role. They could bring someone in today, with one journalist noting they could provide clarity on defensive movements this evening.
Chelsea Waiting Until This Evening to Confirm Defensive Reshuffle
Latest Reports
A report from Nizaar Kinsella indicates that the team are waiting until Sunday evening to clarify the future of Mamadou Sarr. The AFCON winner is set to take part in Strasbourg’s huge clash against Paris Saint-Germain and any indication he could be recalled from loan would ruin the teams preparation for such a big match.
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The merry-go-round would likely see Aaron Anselmino, recently recalled from Borussia Dortmund, make the move to Ligue 1 to replace Sarr who could help Liam Rosenior in England by offering a capable LCB/CCB option with physicality and the ability to pass out from the back.
What Mamadou Sarr Offers
The Senegal international is a tall, agile player who could replace some of what Tosin offers while also providing a better aerial coverage for some of the smaller players in the Blues’ lineup. He is good at building up from the back with FotMob statistics indicating he averages 67 successful passes per 90, with a completion rate of 95% and a 60% accuracy for long balls. His performances have seen him deemed a “special talent” by some analysts.
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Defensively, he also makes a lot of ball recoveries, which should be useful in a team aiming to push the defensive line higher. He would help Rosenior ease in Colwill at that LCB spot when the Englishman recovers from his ACL tear. This could also open the door for some exits in the defence to make some more money on the books.