Chelsea target Crystal Palace's Guehi amid defensive dilemma

Chelsea are facing a real dilemma in defence due to the absences of Benoit Badiashile and Wesley Fofana. The Frenchman, who has been out with a hamstring injury since December 1, could be ruled out for the remainder of the season after his fitness conditions were reassessed last week, while Badiashile is not expected back out until February. 

The situation has prompted the Blues to look for a replacement in the market. According to Fabrizio Romano, Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi has been targeted as the ideal substitute to make up for the defensive shortcomings during a crucial part of the campaign. The Englishman, who made his way up from Chelsea's youth academy, has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders since joining the Eagles in 2021.

As well as the west London side, Liverpool, Newcastle, and Manchester United have also reportedly kept tabs on the player, but reports from 'Give Me Sport' suggest that Chelsea could be in the clear to bring the 23-year-old back to Stamford Bridge as other clubs are unlikely to splash out significant amounts of money mid-season.

Guehi's familiarity with the club's culture makes him an attractive candidate for January, however, Romano highlights that the operation to bring him will not be easy. With 18 months left on Guehi's contract with Palace, Chelsea could wait until he enters the final year to make a move for free, though that could also be a risk as competition for the player will rise. 

Chelsea will be looking to splash at least £65 million for the centre-back if they want to go through with the idea, however, should the Guehi route fizzle out, Enzo Maresca's team could turn to his teammate Trevoh Chalobah, who is on loan at the Eagles. The Blues have the option to recall the 25-year-old after he was frozen out of the squad last summer.

 

January 6, 2025