Chelsea Actively Searching for New Center Backs to Strengthen Defense, Fabrizio Romano Confirms

Chelsea FC are actively searching for new center backs to improve their defense, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. Even though they signed big players like Pedro Neto, Jadon Sancho, and Joao Felix this summer, Chelsea’s defense still has some weaknesses that need fixing.

Under new manager Enzo Maresca, Chelsea have had a good start and are currently third in the league after 11 games. However, their defense has looked unsteady at times. The departure of veteran defender Thiago Silva at the end of last season left a gap in experience and leadership in the backline.

Right now, Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana are Chelsea’s first-choice center-back pairing, and winger Noni Madueke has called them the “perfect” duo. But Chelsea’s other options—Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile, and Axel Disasi—aren’t quite at the same level. Adarabioyo, who joined from Fulham for free, is more of a backup player, and fans feel the team still lacks a strong, commanding leader in defense.

Romano has shared that Chelsea are keeping an eye on several center backs, with Benfica’s Tomas Araujo being one of the main targets. Chelsea had considered signing Araujo towards the end of the summer window, but Benfica wasn’t willing to sell. Other defenders Chelsea might be interested in include Araujo’s Benfica teammate Antonio Silva and Nottingham Forest’s Murillo.

It’s not yet clear if Chelsea will make a move in the January transfer window or wait until next summer, but it’s positive to see the club is aware of the need for a stronger defense.