Chelsea could be set to sell one of their reliable deputies, but they should be careful with the decision. The Blues are in the midst of an intriguing season as Xabi Alonso looks to put his own stamp on this squad.
It remains to be seen how much say Alonso will get in putting the squad together, but he will surely have had assurances before taking the job. Some sort of squad reshape is expected this summer, given Chelsea missed out on European football altogether during the season just gone.
Exits are likely, and one could involve centre-back Trevoh Chalobah.
Fabregas comes calling for Chalobah
According to BBC Sport, Cesc Fabregas and Como are said to be interested in signing Chelsea defender Chalobah this summer. Como are gearing up for a European campaign after their impressive campaign of last, and they have just signed full-back Kaiki Bruno from Cruzeiro.
The report claims talks are ongoing between the two clubs and that Chalobah would be happy to complete the move. But while Como are happy to keep spending, backed by a big budget, they must tread carefully when it comes to FFP rules.
But Chelsea should tread carefully, too, needing to carefully craft this squad going forward. The Blues don't only need the right players, but they also need the right characters in the dressing room to succeed under Alonso.
Chalobah is a strong character who has bailed Chelsea out consistently in the last year or so, coming back from Crystal Palace to play a key role. Enzo Maresca said after his return from Palace: “I think since he has been back with us is doing very, very well. He is playing games, he is helping us. He defends when he needs to defend and he is also building from the back. We are very happy with Trev. I know that he can help us”
He stepped up in the absence of Wesley Fofana and then Levi Colwill amid injuries, and he made no fewer than 47 appearances across all competitions last season.
Given he played such a central role last season, it would be a strange move to sell Chalobah now, even if they are likely to strengthen at centre-back before next season.
At worst, Chalobah is a very strong squad player, and most importantly, he knows what the club is about, or should be about. Those players who help maintain those standards are important to keep around, and it could be a mistake to cash in on such a player this summer as Alonso looks to craft his squad and dressing room.
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