Chelsea Consider January Moves Amid Defensive Injuries and Loan Decisions

Chelsea could replicate an unlikely Jadon Sancho-style transfer by sanctioning a specific mid-season deal in January.

Although a quiet winter window initially seemed likely, a poor run of four games without a win and multiple injuries in key positions have forced a reassessment.

Manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Benoît Badiashile and Wesley Fofana are set for extended spells on the sidelines, leaving Chelsea short at the back. In response, the Blues have recalled Aaron Anselmino from his loan at Boca Juniors and are also contemplating an early recall for Trevoh Chalobah from Crystal Palace.

As an alternative strategy, Chelsea may enter the market for a new defender in January. Several names have already been linked, including Tomas Araújo, António Silva, Ousmane Diomande, and Gonçalo Inácio. Meanwhile, potential exits for defenders Axel Disasi and Renato Veiga could create further movement during the transfer window.

The potential mid-season switch of Carney Chukwuemeka on loan also adds to the January activity. Should the young midfielder secure a temporary move, it could be the ideal opportunity for Chelsea to reshape their squad while boosting Chukwuemeka’s development and market value.