Chelsea's January Transfer Targets: Four Defensive Stars Ready to Transform Their Backline
Chelsea's new manager Liam Rosenior won't have to wait long for transfer window reinforcements if current speculation proves accurate.
The Blues are reportedly preparing to strengthen their squad during the January transfer period, with targets identified across defensive, midfield, and attacking positions. Nevertheless, central defence has been highlighted as the primary area requiring immediate attention.
Former boss Enzo Maresca was convinced that Chelsea needed a top-quality centre-back last summer after Levi Colwill sustained an ACL injury, but his requests were dismissed by BlueCo ownership. Rosenior looks likely to receive support for defensive reinforcements, though.
Below are four centre-backs Chelsea might pursue this winter.
Jérémy Jacquet
Jérémy Jacquet
Jérémy Jacquet is currently generating the most speculation regarding Chelsea's interest. As his surname suggests, the 20-year-old hails from France and has been making waves at Rennes after establishing himself in the senior squad following loan stints at Clermont Foot. He's featured in 29 matches for the Ligue 1 side and has rapidly gained recognition for his commanding aerial presence and tactical awareness despite his youth.
According to reports, Chelsea have already initiated discussions with the prospect and would be prepared to invest €50 million (£43.4 million, $58 million) to secure his signature. Though regarded as one of the most promising emerging talents in his position, that represents a substantial investment—though such figures rarely discourage Chelsea from pursuing their targets.
Marcos Senesi
Marcos Senesi
This would represent a pragmatic acquisition but could prove shrewd business. At 29, bringing in Marcos Senesi would deviate from Chelsea's typical recruitment strategy, yet it might present an opportunity too valuable to pass up given the Bournemouth defender is an established Premier League performer with only six months remaining on his deal.
A bargain purchase would free up resources for other areas, though it's hardly a signing that would generate excitement among Stamford Bridge supporters. The Argentine has performed well on the south coast but wasn't even a consistent starter last campaign, losing his place to Illia Zabarnyi and Dean Huijsen—the latter being someone Chelsea were keen to sign before his move to Real Madrid.
Senesi doesn't epitomize an 'elite' defender but has been connected with a Stamford Bridge switch.
Jacobo Ramón
Jacobo Ramón
Similar to Jacquet, acquiring Jacobo Ramón would represent a gamble for Chelsea. The former Real Madrid centre-back only left the Santiago Bernabéu last summer, moving to Como where he's flourished under former Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fàbregas. However, the 21-year-old represents another unproven yet costly option.
Ramón has accumulated just 24 senior appearances and was clearly someone Madrid were comfortable releasing despite their own defensive needs during the summer. A strong run of form in Serie A doesn't guarantee continued success, with a more seasoned centre-back potentially representing a safer investment.
Castello Lukeba
Castello Lukeba
Someone who possesses the upside of Jacquet and Ramón but with superior experience and first-team exposure is Castello Lukeba. The defender excelled at Lyon in his homeland before maintaining his excellent progression at RB Leipzig, approaching 100 appearances for the Bundesliga club.
His left-footed profile makes him an attractive proposition for any top European side, and the 23-year-old's pace, strength and distribution abilities only enhance his marketability. The France international would command a significant fee but provides more certainty than some of Chelsea's alternative options. He's been previously linked with the west London club.