Levi Colwill's injury is a major blow to a Chelsea team that had been on an upward trajectory. Many were viewing Enzo Maresca's side as potential title contenders. But it is hard to imagine that they will be able to make a Premier League push without their best centre-back. Hopefully, a replacement will be brought in.
There were many who had hoped that Colwill's injury would lead to Renato Veiga staying at Chelsea. If a 22-year-old centre-back started for Juventus consistently, had the ability to play at left-back and was a full Portuguese international, he would tick all the boxes the Blues look for when signing a player. Yet, they seem content to part ways with him this summer.
It appears that Colwill's injury has not changed the situation either. Veiga appears to be on his way out, depite a touted move to Atletico Madrid collapsing earlier in the window.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea consider Veiga available for transfer even after Colwill's injury. The player wants a new chapter as well. Talks to advance in the next days with several clubs keen after Atletico Madrid deal did not happen.
'Talks to advance' - Fabrizio Romano confirms Chelsea defender will leave
Many felt that this would have been the right time to give Veiga a chance as a starting centre-back. But it looks like a decision has already been made on his future and Colwill's injury won't change that.
The positive news is that Chelsea do seem open to the idea of signing another centre-back this summer. Maresca's comments in pre-season have pointed in that direction.
Of course, there are not too many players in world football who are capable of coming in and replacing Colwill. Ronald Araujo has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge, even though he is extremely injury-prone himself. Other centre-backs are believed to be on Chelsea's radar too.