Stamford Bridge is already playing a dangerous game with its new manager, Xabi Alonso, as Chelsea pushes ahead with a certain defensive blueprint.
Chelsea’s defensive frailties were painfully exposed throughout a disjointed campaign that saw them leak goals and slump to a tenth-place finish. The Blues struggled in almost every area, for stability and leadership, frequently collapsing under high-pressure environments.
The Blues have already secured the signings of Sporting CP winger Geovany Quenda, Strasbourg forward Emanuel Emegha, Brazilian talent Denner, and young striker Dastan Satpaev.
Additionally, a deal has been agreed for Strasbourg midfielder Valentin Barco.
However, you can’t help but feel that all of the incoming signings lack experience, which is something Chelsea will be looking to address this summer.
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Chelsea want one centre-back signing this summer
A report from The Athletic states that Chelsea intends to buy at least 2 ready-made players who can go straight into the first XI.
With no Europe, they don’t want too many additions. They are looking to add just one CB as things stand and also want a flexible attacker who can play in multiple positions.
Now, we already know that a centre-back is one of Xabi Alonso’s main priorities, and we have seen links to the likes of Cristian Romero and Ibrahima Konate.
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Chelsea need more than one centre-back
Chelsea’s centre-back options have displayed an alarming unreliability and a lack of experience. The current crop of centre-backs includes Trevoh Chalobah, Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, Levi Colwill, Tosin Adarabioyo, Jorrel Hato, and teenager Mamadou Sarr.
While Chalobah and Fofana formed the primary defensive partnership, Fofana’s long-term injury track record means he remains a persistent fitness risk, as well as a case for mistakes.
Badiashile has continually struggled with form and spatial awareness, while Colwill’s progression has frequently been interrupted by recurring physical setbacks.
The rest of the unit simply lacks any seasoned, top-level authority. Tosin Adarabioyo, despite being seen as a commanding leader, has offered very little. Meanwhile, young Mamadou Sarr has barely tasted senior football, making his debut just this past season.
Jorrel Hato and Colwill are just about the only options that ended the season strongly for Chelsea.
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