Chelsea are still keen on signing a new defender as we fast approach the final three days of this summer transfer window, following Levi Colwill’s devastating ACL injury which will keep him sidelined for the majority of 2025/2026.
Trevoh Chalobah and Tosin Adarabioyo were given the starting nod as Enzo Maresca’s centre-back pairing against West Ham this time last week, with the Italian opting for them over Wesley Fofana, who’s just come back from injury.
Benoit Badiashile also won’t be back until September, meaning Maresca has very little options – something which he’s addressed as a concern to the media.
“The club will have to make the signing a priority,” said club legend Gus Poyet to Tribal Football this week.
“Every coach has their plan, and when an injury disrupts it, then it’s frustrating, but at least Levi’s injury was before the transfer window shut.
“I fully expect Chelsea to go into the market now and sign a centre back. If signing one permanently doesn’t work out, then I’m sure they will bring someone in on loan, as this will help them cope for the season until Colwill is hopefully back playing this time next season.
“I’d say there’s a 99% chance that Chelsea signs a centre back before the end of the transfer window.”
Journalist Simon Phillips, despite personally believing it is unlikely, says Chelsea are very much still looking to sign a new defender after being repeatedly linked with one this window.
“This info has come from my best source who has consistently told me that we have been looking in the centre back market all summer,” wrote Phillips, via his Substack.
“The source simply told me on Wednesday night that ‘centre backs are still being looked at.’
“So the info is vague, but I’d suspect because he has told me before that Chelsea have been weighing up a late loan move for a new centre back in the last couple of weeks and have consistently been checking in on potential options they can bring in if, and it’s a huge if, at this point, Chelsea do move for a new centre back in these last four days, I’d expect it to be some sort of short term loan option in the door.
“Remember, Enzo Maresca has asked for a new centre back behind closed doors.”
According to website Juve FC, there is one man who Maresca is very keen on from his homeland.
Enzo Maresca wants Juventus defender Federico Gatti at Chelsea
As per their information, Juventus defender Federico Gatti has been a player of real interest to Chelsea.
The Blues attempted to open talks with Igor Tudor’s side over a deal after making an enquiry, with Maresca personally wanting Chelsea to sign Gatti. However, the Bioncaneri have shut all doors on suitors, including Arsenal, and agreed a new contract with the former Italian low league defender quite recently.
Likened to both Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci, who are both Serie A icons, Gatti’s experience and proven capabilities would’ve been a major asset to Maresca – but a move for Gatti appears very unlikely right now.
“21-year-old Federico Gatti played for the 4th-tier Italian club Verbania Calcio in 2020. An absolute hero of the current Serie A leaders Juventus in recent weeks,” said Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig in 2023.
“You don’t have to be a top talent to have a great career at a top level.”