Report: Chelsea prepare three-man shortlist amidst potential crisis in defence next summer

Transfer News: Chelsea eye centre-back trio of Jules Kounde, Matthijs de Ligt and Pau Torres as they plan for the summer

According to Eurosport (h/t Metro), Chelsea are looking at Jules Kounde, Matthijs de Ligt and Pau Torres, as a potential centre-back overhaul could happen in the summer. The Blues are said to be preparing a shortlist in a worst-case scenario that could unfold in the near future.

The interest is amidst a potential situation where Cesar Azpilicueta, Thiago Silva, Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen could walk for free after this season. This could spell trouble for Thomas Tuchel’s side as their defence is the best in the Premier League.

Having conceded only three goals in nine league matches, Tuchel’s team sit top of the table with 22 points. Their defence has been crucial for their success so far this season. A restructure at the back is the last thing the German coach would need in this situation.

Kounde is said to be the priority as the English club already tried for him in the summer. However, they were not able to agree on a fee with Sevilla for the 22-year-old. A move in January could be on the cards as the rumours state.

De Ligt is an expensive option due to his wage package coupled with the transfer fee and super-agent Mino Raiola. It seems like the league leaders would need to shell out money no matter what should the need arise.

A cheaper option is Villareal’s left-footed centre-back, Torres, who has played a major role in Luis Enrique’s Spain recently. He also played an important role in the Spanish club’s Europa League winning run last season.

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While the Champions League winners have Trevoh Chalobah and Malang Sarr in their team, they still need someone to lead the backline alongside them. They would be hopeful that they won’t lose all four centre-backs at the same time, but if they do, it seems like they have a plan put in place.