Chelsea and Manchester United Prioritize Central Defender Recruitment with Abundant Options on the Table” Fabrizio Romano affirms that Chelsea and Manchester United are gearing up for a significant January transfer window move to bolster their central defense. This decision follows a series of lackluster performances this season, underlining the urgent need for quality additions to their defensive lineup.
Chelsea underwent substantial squad changes during the recent transfer window, investing heavily in young talents. Among their acquisitions is Axel Disasi, a former Monaco standout predominantly recognized as a central defender.
After the first ten games of the Premier League season, it has become evident that a partnership has developed between the seasoned Thiago Silva and the emerging academy talent Levi Colwill in the central defensive roles. Meanwhile, players such as Benoit Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah, and Disasi serve as backup options behind the established duo.
Yet, Mauricio Pochettino remains unconvinced by the quality on board, which has led to Fabrizio Romano commenting on their need for a central defender. Going by their recently adopted transfer policy, the club might move for a young player, ready to develop into a future first-team star.
Incidentally, they are linked with Leny Yoro, the LOSC Lille teenager, considered an emerging talent, having broken through to their first team. Similarly, there are links with Alessandro Bastoni, but signing the Italian will come with complications and a massive price tag.
Chelsea needing a new central defender is one thing, but they already have a stacked-up backline. The idea might resonate well if they manage to sell Chalobah in January, which may have been their plan heading into the next window.
Romano insists Manchester United are also in the hunt for a new central defender. Erik ten Hag has managed to play with a depleted backline due to injuries to his key defenders since the season began. Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw are already missing, alongside two fullbacks in Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Tyrel Malacia.
Emergency signings of Sergio Reguilon and veteran Jonny Evans haven’t worked out well, as Ten Hag desperately needs reinforcements to his backline. The Dutchman might prioritise a centre-back above other positions, with links to several players, including Sebastian Caceres and Robin Le Normand.
Jean-Clair Todibo also features on their list, but any incomings will force Ten Hag to raise funds. Manchester United may not have the healthiest of positions with their finances, and that showed during the summer window.
The same problems may not exist at Chelsea for the time being, as Todd Boehly might open his chequebooks to bring whoever Pochettino wants. Hence, the two clubs could have a massive say in the market for central defenders, as they will look for the right solutions to solve their respective problems.