Chelsea are poised to finally address their defensive issues in the January transfer window, with new manager Liam Rosenior set to be granted a signing his predecessor was denied.
Maresca's Unheeded Plea
The saga dates back to the summer of 2025, when then-manager Enzo Maresca publicly pleaded with the Chelsea board to sign a new centre-back. This request came after a severe knee injury ruled key defender Levi Colwill out for most, if not all, of the season.
Despite Maresca's clear stance, the club's hierarchy informed him they would not be making a defensive addition. The Italian was forced to tell supporters he would have to find solutions from within the existing squad. This decision is widely believed to have contributed to Chelsea's shaky defensive performances and, ultimately, to the fracturing of Maresca's relationship with the board.
A New Manager, A New Chance
Maresca and Chelsea parted ways by mutual consent earlier this season, with results not cited as the primary reason. The club has since turned to Liam Rosenior, who now finds himself in a stronger negotiating position.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Chelsea board is now actively discussing the possibility of bringing in a centre-back this month. "Let's see what happens with centre-backs because there are conversations Chelsea are having with Liam Rosenior over the possibility of adding a centre-back in the January window," Romano stated on his YouTube channel.
He added: "It's something Maresca wanted in the summer but Chelsea stuck with the squad they have. Let's see now what they decide to do in the final two weeks."
January Challenges and Squad Impact
Chelsea face the typical difficulties of the winter market, where few clubs are willing to sell first-team defenders, especially for reasonable fees. However, Romano confirms the club has internally assessed the move.
In positive news for one young talent, Romano clarified that any new arrival will not affect the immediate future of academy prospect Josh Acheampong. Dismissing loan rumours, he said: "It is not going to mean anything to Josh Acheampong because they still trust Josh and they don't want to sell him. Despite all the rumours we are going to hear, his situation is absolutely quiet."
With Chelsea currently sitting four points off the Premier League's top four, the board's apparent U-turn signals a recognition that defensive reinforcements are crucial for a successful second half of the campaign under Rosenior.
