Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Como are taking decisive steps to lure Trevoh Chalobah away from Stamford Bridge this summer. And that urgency has seen the Serie A new boys launch an initial official bid for the 26-year-old centre-back, who has been with Chelsea since the age of eight.
Chalobah is currently away with the England squad at the World Cup after receiving a late call-up when Tino Livramento was ruled out with injury. Thomas Tuchel notably preferred him to Manchester United veteran Harry Maguire. He has yet to feature as the Three Lions drew their opener 4-2 against Croatia and were held 0-0 by Ghana.
Former Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has taken Como into the Champions League and views Chalobah as a statement signing to anchor their continental charge. Romano also reports that Inter have looked at the Englishman as one of their centre-back options, raising the prospect of a bidding war that could net a healthy return for Chelsea.
Why Chelsea Are Willing To Let Their Academy Graduate Go
While Chalobah made 47 appearances in all competitions last season, he is no longer untouchable as Chelsea reshape their backline under incoming manager Xabi Alonso. The Blues’ usual centre-half was defender Levi Colwill, who was out for a long period with an anterior cruciate ligament injury. But the powers that be at the club have decided they need a more accomplished player to be Colwill’s long-term partner going forward.
This possible departure is very much related to the wider movement at the heart of Chelsea’s defence. The Blues have stepped up their interest in Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix, and the Chalobah sale could help fund that anticipated arrival before the window closes. The Blues have already green-lit Marc Cucurella’s big-money move to Real Madrid, and it seems the revolving door at Stamford Bridge is not slowing down anytime soon this summer.
For Chalobah, the chance to play in the Champions League is a major attraction, not least because Chelsea will be playing no European football next season after a disappointing 10th-place finish. With two years remaining on his current deal, the defender gives the Blues some leverage, but not unlimited bargaining power. Chelsea’s resolve will be tested by both Como and Inter in the coming weeks, as reports suggest there is still a gap in valuation between the clubs before a deal can cross the finish line.