Chelsea Seeks Defender Options After Levi Colwill ACL Injury

Chelsea face a significant challenge after star defender Levi Colwill suffered a season-ending ACL injury, confirmed to keep him out for much of the 2025-26 campaign. Despite the injury, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca and coaching staff are confident in the existing young defensive options, including Jorrel Hato, Renato Veiga, and Aaron Anselmino, believing they can cope without signing a new centre-back immediately. However, there is strong speculation and pressure for the club to pursue a high-profile replacement, with former academy product Marc Guehi—now a key player and captain at Crystal Palace—emerging as a leading target, reportedly available for around £40 million and attracting interest from Chelsea as well as Liverpool and Newcastle. Other potential transfer targets include Benfica’s Tomas Araujo and Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni, both considered elite defenders who could accelerate Chelsea's quest for Premier League success. While some reports suggest Chelsea have no 'emergency plans' to sign a new defender, the uncertainty remains as the club evaluates whether to reinforce its defence amid the absence of Colwill. Chelsea is preparing to start the new Premier League season with confidence, relying on their young talent and recent signings to maintain momentum from their successful previous campaign.