Chelsea's start to the season has been a major disappointment to be very frank. The Blues simply have not been able to meet the expectations that had been set for them after clinching the Club World Cup with a dominant win over Paris Saint-Germain. Of course, injuries to key players like Cole Palmer, Liam Delap and Levi Colwill have played a part. But even then, this team has looked nowhere near being title contenders.'
A lot of that is down to the confused transfer policy that they followed in the summer. It was very clear from Enzo Maresca's comments that he wanted another centre-back after Colwill's ACL injury. But one was not brought in.
It was briefed to the media that the club were confident in the centre-backs they already had and were also concerned about what kind of effect the addition of another centre-back would have on the development of Josh Acheampong. Well, both seem to have been pretty misplaced ideas.
The likes of Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo and Wesley Fofana have looked nowhere near good enough. The defence has been shaky throughout the season. They even struggled against League One side Lincoln City. On the other hand, Acheampong has played only one game. Of course, that one is on Maresca.
Real Madrid lining up move for player Chelsea want to sign
In recent weeks, after Chelsea's shaky defensive performances, there have been suggestions that the club could try to sign Marc Guehi. The Crystal Palace captain's contract runs out next summer. He was on the verge of joining Liverpool in the previous window but the move collapsed at the last minute.
It is hard to see him extending his stay with Palace. That being said, there is plenty of competition for his signature and it only seems to be increasing. As reported by TEAMtalk, Real Madrid are also circling, eyeing a potential bargain if Guehi becomes a free agent in 2026.
Real Madrid often get what they want in the transfer market. On the other hand, Liverpool have been spectacular when it comes to getting deals done in recent times as well. So, this won't be an easy race for Chelsea to come out on top of.