As always seems to be the case, it has been a busy transfer window for Chelsea.
They have completed the signings of Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens and Jorrel Hato.
Meanwhile, Estevao and Dario Essugo have joined after their pre-arranged transfers.
There have been several outgoings too, namely Noni Madueke, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Armando Broja among others.
Several Chelsea fans believe with this business, they are close to having a side that can compete for the English Premier League.
However, there has been a spanner in the works this week.
Central defender Levi Colwill suffered an ACL injury this week, and will miss most of the season.
Some thought that central defence was the area of the team that needed a reinforcement or two anyway.
They certainly think that’s the case now.
Crucially – so does Enzo Maresca.
The Chelsea manager told Nizaar Kinsella: “It’s a priority [strengthening in defence] because Levi is a fantastic player.
What we achieved last season is because of him. He played all the games with me, I love him, we’re going to miss him.”
Chelsea do have other options in central defence – the likes of Tosin Adarabioyo and Trevoh Chalobah.
Josh Acheampong also has fans excited.
Options beyond that do feel a little light though. Wesley Fofana is incredibly injury prone.
Meanwhile it feels clear there is little future at the club for Axel Disasi and Benoit Badashile.
Whilst Renato Veiga has been linked heavily with a move away.
So they probably do feel one short there, albeit new signing Hato has played as a centre half before.
Maresca added on getting a replacement: “It’s a priority [strengthening in defence] because Levi is a fantastic player. What we achieved last season is because of him. He played all the games with me, I love him, we’re going to miss him.” https://t.co/4vzW9Txh65
— Nizaar Kinsella (@NizaarKinsella) August 8, 2025
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