Chelsea are cautiously optimistic they will sign an elite centre back this month – and it should not be seen as two fingers being stuck up at Liam Rosenior's predecessor Enzo Maresca. A narrative developed suggesting Maresca was denied a central-defensive signing in the summer following Levi Colwill’s ACL injury. However, Daily Mail Sport has learned Chelsea were already scouting such targets who suited the ‘central centre back’ profile long before Colwill’s issue. While a centre back is the priority, Daily Mail Sport has been told Chelsea would not be against moving for a midfielder or attacker if the proper opportunity arose. Club chiefs are currently looking into whether summer targets can be accelerated into this January window.

Source: Metro January 16, 2026 22:01 UTC