Chelsea lose race to sign young defender Jeremy Jacquet. Now the club is looking at another rising star. Reports say they are seeking interest in Sedi Kinteh. A fast teenage defender who plays for Tromso in Norway. The Blues want to build a strong team for the future, and they believe young players like him can help. With elite clubs circling and a modest price tag. This could be another bold youth-driven move by Chelsea.
🚨💰 EXCL | Chelsea are internally working on a possible bid for Abubacarr Sedi Kinteh.
After approaching the Gambian CB to gather info, the 🏴 club is now assessing next steps.
Tromsø value him at ~€6/7m.
Other top clubs are also in the mix, but CFC's stance is one to watch. pic.twitter.com/SytxcApSlJ
— Rudy Galetti (@RudyGaletti) January 11, 2026
Missed with Jeremy Jacquet, won with Sedi Kinteh
Chelsea’s long-term recruitment strategy has been focusing. Heavily on young, high-potential players from across Europe over years. After failing to secure Jeremy Jacquet during the window. The club has kept its scouting network active. Meanwhile. 19-year-old Sedi Kinteh has been enjoying a breakthrough season at Tromsø in Norway’s Eliteserien.
Kinteh has made 25 appearances in all competitions. He has done very well and created a noticeable presence in the league table for Tromsø. Known for his pace, strength and positional awareness. He signed a five-year contract in March 2025. After impressing during a trial earlier in that year. His performances have quickly pulled attention also beyond Norway.
Jeremy Jacquet’s search led to Kinteh’s interest.
Missing out on Jeremy Jacquet made Chelsea scouts work harder. The club wants to sign young players early so they can grow into stars. That is why they are watching Sedi Kinteh closely.
Kinteh can play as a centre-back and also as a left-back. This makes him very useful. At Tromso, he often moves forward to press attackers. If a rival runs past the defense, he can chase them quickly. His speed helps his team play brave defense without much fear.
Chelsea’s interest is smart. The team wants defenders who can play in a high line and still stay in control. Kinteh fits this plan well. His best skill is his speed. Reports say he has reached 37 km/h in games. That is very fast and close to the speed of Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven.
But Chelsea are not alone. Basel and Young Boys football clubs may try to sign him soon while their transfer window is still open. Tromso may sell him for about £4 million. For a big Premier League club, that price is not very high.
Manchester United are also watching him. Still, they may focus on buying a midfielder first. This could give Chelsea a better chance to sign Kinteh if they act fast.
Abubacarr Sedi Kinteh (19, 🇬🇲)
🔗Chelsea from Tromsø
🥇Defensive Duels
🥇Sliding Tackles
🥇Passes into Penalty Box
🥇Through Passes Completed
🥇Successful Dribbles
🥈Defensive Duels Won
🥈Progressive Passing Accuracy %
🥉Forward Passes
🥉Progressive Passes Completed pic.twitter.com/azMzRGxfFI
— António Mango (@AntonioMango4) February 10, 2026
Reactions of fans to transfer rumours.
Chelsea fans are showing split reactions on social media. Some show excitement, especially given the player’s age and potential resale value. They see this move as another example of the club’s forward-thinking recruitment model.
Some fans however question whether another young defender is the immediate solution. Arguing that experience may also be required.
In Norway, Tromso supporters are bracing for interest from bigger leagues. Many believe he will rise well and good. After his senior debut for the Gambia National Team during World Cup qualifiers.
Why This Transfer Matters
If Chelsea signs Kinteh. It would show they are still focused on building for the future. Instead of only buying famous stars. They want to develop young talent. This plan has worked for many big clubs before.
For Kinteh, a move to England would be a huge step. He would train with top players, face strong strikers, and learn new tactics. Even if he does not play every match at first. The experience could help him grow into a top defender.
Author’s Opinion
As the summer window approaches. Sedi Kinteh’s future looks increasingly uncertain. Chelsea must now decide. whether to act quickly or risk missing out again. One thing is clear – Europe is watching this rising defensive star.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
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