Chelseaâs struggles with injuries, especially at the back, are nothing new. Even before the beginning of this season, Levi Colwill sustained an ACL injury, which will keep him out for most of the campaign, if not all of it.
Recently sacked manager Enzo Maresca had requested a new centre-back as a backup in the summer, but it was overlooked by the club management, who appeared to believe that they already had enough players to cover for the English defenderâs absence. Well, with the first half of the season now over, that hardly seems to be the case, as Chelsea have struggled defensively throughout.
With that in mind, it appears Chelsea are finally looking to bring in a new centre-back, if reports are to be believed. They are already keeping an eye on a highly-rated youngster for this winter transfer window.
According to CaughtOffside, Chelsea are one of the clubs to have sent scouts to watch Udinese defender Oumar Solet. But Tottenham Hotspur are preparing a winter move for him.
Chelsea send scouts to monitor top Serie A defender wanted by multiple clubs
Solet has gathered a lot of admirers with his recent performances. The French youth international is a regular in Udineseâs backline and has made 21 appearances in all competitions for the club so far this season.
So, needless to say, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur arenât the only teams linked with the player, with other top clubs like Barcelona, Manchester United, and Crystal Palace are also reportedly in the race to sign the 25-year-old. Additionally, a move to a Serie A giant like AS Roma, Inter Milan or AC Milan isnât ruled out either.
As a result, Chelsea might have to shell out a fair bit of money if they indeed intend to go after the player, as thereâs a possibility of a tug-of-war situation unfolding. Apart from Solet, there are other options the Blues might pursue. Interestingly, one of the Premier League's best defenders, Marc Guehi, could leave Crystal Palace soon, and fans wouldnât mind seeing the Cobham graduate back at Stamford Bridge.