Chelsea draw up 7-man shortlist for January window as Enzo Maresca seeks reinforcements: Reports

Chelsea have reportedly drawn up a seven-man shortlist for the ongoing January transfer window. This is according to a report from Simon Phillips, who says that the Blues have listed down a number of central defenders as targets (via CaughtOffSide).

Among the seven players are Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi, who has been rumored to leave the Eagles in recent weeks. The England international is only contracted with his club till the summer of 2026, which may prompt Crystal Palace to sell him in 2025.

Another Premier League target for the west Londoners is Bournemouth's Dean Huijsen, who has made 15 appearances in the English top-flight this year. He's only 19 years old and is a wonderful long-term prospect.

Other players who are said to be among Chelsea's top interests are Benfica duo Tomas Araujo and Antonio Silva. This report states that the Portuguese outfit will struggle to keep hold of their young central defenders if they wish to leave.

Phillips has named Barcelona's experienced defender Ronald Araujo as well in his report. The Uruguay international may be another option to snap up, given he, too, is contracted with the Blaugrana till the summer of 2026. It is unlikely that he would want to leave the Catalan side for Chelsea, given Barcelona are contending for top honors this year.

The other two central defenders that are being considered at Stamford Bridge are Sporting Lisbon's Ousmane Diomande and another Cherries man Illia Zabarnyi. The latter is also experienced in the Premier League, having made 20 appearances in the competition this campaign.

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Chelsea considering recalling defender on loan amid injury crisis - Reports

Trevoh Chalobah

Chelsea are facing issues in the central defensive department due to injuries to key players like Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile. As a result, the Blues are said to be considering recalling Trevoh Chalobah, a player who is currently on loan at Crystal Palace, The Athletic reports (via Metro).

The 25-year-old has been doing fairly well for the Eagles this campaign, having featured in 12 Premier League matches, bagging three goals in the process. Given his form and the Blues' need for centre-backs, his spell at Selhurst Park, which is supposed to run till the end of the season, may be cut short.

Chalobah has been with Chelsea for a significant period, having come through the youth ranks at the club. Overall, he's made 80 senior appearances across competitions for the west Londoners, bagging five goals and an assist.