“I think he can solve the issue” – Pep Guardiola open talk to sign £50m Chelsea who only plays one game under Maresca
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Chelsea Defender Ben Chilwell Linked to Manchester City
Chelsea’s Ben Chilwell, who has only featured in one match under Enzo Maresca this season, has emerged as a potential January signing for Manchester City. Reports suggest that Pep Guardiola sees the £50m-rated defender as a practical addition to bolster City’s struggling squad.
Currently, City is enduring a tough run, having won just one of their last 12 games across all competitions. A recent 2-1 loss to Aston Villa has seen them slide to seventh in the Premier League, a significant 12 points behind league leaders Liverpool.
Limited Game Time at Chelsea
Chilwell’s only appearance for Chelsea this season came in a Carabao Cup tie against Barrow in September. Despite being informed in the summer that he wasn’t part of Maresca’s plans, Chilwell didn’t secure a move away from Stamford Bridge. This contrasts with Raheem Sterling, who successfully joined Arsenal during the same period.
Potential January Move to Manchester City
Former Manchester City financial advisor Stefan Borson has hinted that a loan move for Chilwell is a feasible option for the club during the winter transfer window. Speaking on X, Borson stated, “Players like Ben Chilwell on loan are more realistic January signings. Just think this is what we can expect.”
This follows reports dismissing City’s potential interest in Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, indicating that the club is hesitant to spend big in January. As a result, Chilwell appears to be a more achievable target.
Interest Beyond Manchester City
Manchester City isn’t the only club linked with the former Leicester City star. Reports suggest Manchester United might reignite their summer interest in Chilwell, particularly with full-back Luke Shaw sidelined by a long-term leg injury. Shaw’s recent setback in December has left United short of options at left-back.
In addition, Serie A powerhouse Juventus is reportedly considering a loan move for Chilwell, having lost two defenders to injury in recent months. Despite the interest, Chelsea is understood to prefer a permanent sale of the 28-year-old.
Maresca’s Comments on Potential Departures
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca recently addressed the futures of Chilwell and midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka, acknowledging the possibility of their departures in January. Speaking at a Friday press conference, Maresca noted, “There are players that unfortunately didn’t play a lot with us in all the competitions, like Chilwell, like Carney.”
Both players have struggled for game time under Maresca, making exits likely as they seek opportunities elsewhere.
What Lies Ahead for Chilwell?
With multiple clubs showing interest, Ben Chilwell’s future appears to lie away from Chelsea. Manchester City’s need for reinforcements and their reluctance to overspend make Chilwell a prime candidate for a winter move. However, competition from Manchester United and Juventus could complicate matters.
For Chilwell, January could offer a chance to revive his career, whether at City or elsewhere. The coming weeks will reveal if Pep Guardiola gets his man or if another club swoops in for the experienced defender.
