Exclusive: Chelsea consider making quick move to sign England international with Barcelona stars also on radar

01/06/2025 10:45 AM

TBR Football can exclusively reveal that Chelsea are planning to now wrap up a move to sign one of their targets as early as in the ongoing January transfer window.

Chelsea are winless in their last four outings in the Premier League as their strong start to the season is starting to dwindle away.

For the Blues to seal a place in the Champions League next season, Enzo Maresca might need his side to be strengthened in the window.

Chelsea transfer news: Marc Guehi eyed for January move

TBR Football’s chief correspondentGraeme Bailey can reveal that Chelsea are considering making an early move to sign Marc Guehi this month.

TBR Football confirmed in November that Chelsea were keen on Guehi’s signing, who has become a mainstay at Crystal Palace since departing Stamford Bridge in 2021.

Guehi and Palace have not been expecting any deals involving the £18 million (Guardian) man in January. Guehi, who Joe Cole raved about once will be sold in 2025, as he is unwilling to extend his expiring contract beyond 2026.

TBR Football can confirm that the two reasons why Chelsea are now prioritising signing the England international this month is because firstly, due to Wesley Fofana’s injury and secondly, as they intend to upgrade upon their right-sided centre-back options in Axel Disasi and Tosin Adarabioyo.

Chelsea also have the option of recalling Trevoh Chalobah from his season-long loan spell at Crystal Palace.

However, TBR Football have been informed that Chelsea’s hierarchy would rather sign Guehi and make Chalobah’s move to Palace permanent, a deal which is being considered.

Chelsea’s three-man centre-back shortlist apart from Guehi

TBR Football have also been notified that Chelsea are interested in Abdukodir Khusanov as well as Barcelona’s defensive duo of Ronald Araujo and Jules Kounde.

Ronald Araujo’s future at Barcelona remains uncertain, as he has only 18 months left on his current deal.

As for Jules Kounde, his deal at the Spotify Camp Nou runs out in 2027.

Khusanov will leave Lens in January as well, as confirmed by managing director Pierre Dreossi.

However, TBR Football have been made aware that Guehi remains one of their preferred options.