Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has reportedly set his sights on a Euro 2024 standout who has been performing “astonishingly” for his current club. As Stamford Bridge officials gear up to strengthen their squad, a key defensive signing could be on the horizon.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Chelsea’s Pursuit of a New Defender in Upcoming Transfer Windows
According to recent reports from reliable sources, including journalist Simon Phillips, Chelsea is determined to bring in another centre-back within the next two transfer windows. Scouts have already been dispatched to South America and other regions as the club evaluates multiple targets.
Among the names linked to Stamford Bridge, Nottingham Forest’s Murillo stands out. The Brazilian defender has been pivotal for Forest, under Nuno Espirito Santo, during their stellar start to the Premier League season. Some reports suggest that Chelsea might consider a swap deal involving Trevoh Chalobah, who is set to return from his loan spell at Crystal Palace next summer.
Another player admired by Chelsea is Benfica’s Tomas Araujo. Despite late summer rumors of a £34 million bid, the Portuguese talent remains a potential acquisition for the Blues. Other defenders reportedly under consideration include Palmeiras’ Vitor Reis, Zenit St. Petersburg’s Robert Renin, PSG’s Lucas Beraldo, and Albacete loanee Kaiky. However, it remains uncertain who will emerge as Chelsea’s primary target.
The push for defensive reinforcements may seem surprising given the current depth in Maresca’s squad. Wesley Fofana and Levi Colwill have developed a strong partnership, with Benoit Badiashile, Axel Disasi, and Tosin Adarabioyo providing ample backup. Yet, rumors of a January exit for Disasi and Chelsea’s long-term ambitions could explain the interest in bolstering this area.
Maresca’s Personal Interest in Ilya Zabarnyi
In addition to these options, Bournemouth’s Ilya Zabarnyi has emerged as a notable target for Chelsea. The 22-year-old Ukrainian defender, who featured in every match for his country during Euro 2024, is reportedly on Chelsea’s radar for 2025. Zabarnyi has amassed nearly 50 international caps and has consistently impressed in the Premier League this season.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca is said to be a keen admirer of Zabarnyi, whose performances have earned high praise from Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola. Speaking about Zabarnyi and his teammate Marcos Senesi after their victory over Manchester City, Iraola highlighted their resilience:
“I think they were very brave because it’s difficult to play with the space we had behind us throughout the match against Haaland, who is always a threat,” Iraola remarked.
“At the end of the match, the game was different: they were pressing us, and we had to defend against crosses and deal with difficult situations. We were not only playing against Erling; the central defenders of Manchester City also moved forward – everyone was putting pressure on us.
“I think they really handled their job very well. They are working astonishingly in training.”
With Chelsea’s ambitions firmly set on maintaining their competitiveness, the potential acquisition of Zabarnyi, along with other defensive targets, signals a proactive approach to shaping the squad for the future.
