Rarely have Chelsea gone out and signed established players in recent years. While the Blues have spent a lot of money, the majority of that has been on potential rather than experience and proven quality. And while that strategy has been heavily criticised, they are starting to reap the benefits now, having secured Champions League football and won both the Club World Cup and Conference League last season. This might be the start of some great things to come in the future.
Enzo Maresca has been handed a headache before the season has even started though. Levi Colwill, Chelsea's best centre-back, has suffered an ACL injury that could keep him out for the entire campaign.
In the media, it has been suggested that Chelsea are happy with the options they have at centre-back despite Colwill's injury. But it does feel like signing another central defender has to be near the top of the wishlist. As things stand, they do not appear to have a standout option in that area of the pitch.
Ibrahima Konate is someone whose future at Liverpool is up in the air right now with his contract running out a year later. He seems to be another player Real Madrid have earmarked for a free transfer in the summer. Of course, the Reds must be keen to avoid the Trent Alexander-Arnold saga all over again. Does that open up a window of opportunity for Chelsea?
Chelsea plan to make serious offer for Liverpool starter
As reported by Chelsea News, the Blues are willing to test Konate and Real Madrid’s nerve by offering Liverpool serious money for the France international. The World Champions “plan to make a direct offer” for the centre-back.
Of course, Konate is a starter for Liverpool. So, one would imagine that the club would not be keen to see him join a direct Premier League rival.
That being said, one cannot overlook their need to find a solution to Konate's contract situation quickly. Liverpool's recent transfer activity does suggest that they have an eye on the future, as they are set to sign Parma's rising 18-year-old centre-back Giovanni Leoni while personal terms have been agreed with Marc Guehi as well.