Chelsea have reportedly drawn up a five-man shortlist of centre-back targets as they look to strengthen their defensive options in the upcoming summer transfer window.
According to reports, the Premier League club is actively working on potential deals while simultaneously preparing for the FIFA Club World Cup tournament which begins this weekend in the United States.
Key Defensive Targets Identified
Football London's Bobby Vincent has revealed that Ajax's versatile defender Jorrel Hato features prominently on Chelsea's radar. The west London club has also expressed interest in Benfica's Tomas Araujo, Nottingham Forest's Murillo, Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi, and Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite.
The Blues have already secured the signature of English striker Liam Delap from Ipswich Town, marking their first acquisition of the summer. However, manager Enzo Maresca appears keen to further bolster his squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
"Plenty of names on the club's radar," Vincent stated in a recent Q&A session. "Hato is one of them, yes, but also the likes of Murillo, Jarrad Branthwaite, Marc Guehi and Tomas Araujo."
Broader Transfer Strategy
Beyond strengthening their central defensive options, Chelsea are reportedly looking to add a winger and a versatile forward to their ranks. This comprehensive approach suggests Maresca is planning a significant squad overhaul to challenge on multiple fronts next season.
The timing of these potential transfers remains uncertain, as the club's immediate focus is on their participation in the FIFA Club World Cup. Chelsea's performance in this prestigious tournament could influence their transfer strategy and budget for the remainder of the summer window.
With several high-profile defenders on their shortlist, Chelsea fans will be eagerly anticipating which of these targets eventually makes the move to Stamford Bridge in the coming months.
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