ChelseaThe club’s defensive problems have been highlighted in recent weeks, and injuries are again plaguing many players Enzo Marescateam, opens the door to newcomers this window.
Wesley Fofana has been a key member of the Italian squad since taking over in the summer, starting all first 12 outings of Premier League season.
However, his hamstring injury at the start of December appears to be worse than first feared and the Blues boss is unsure whether the Frenchman will feature again in 2024/25.
His compatriot Benoit Badiashile has also been sidelined in recent games, leaving the club light in defensive areas and down to the bare bones – even seeing youngster Josh Acheampong feature against Crystal Palace.
It’s no surprise to see the club delve into the transfer market to try and land reinforcements, with one player strongly linked with a move to Stamford Bridge this winter.
Chelsea lead the race for the defensive star
According to CaughtOffside, Chelsea lead the race to sign Ajax’s young centre-back Jorrel Hato before the end of the ongoing transfer window.
Arsenal and Real Madrid are also reportedly interested in a move for the 18-year-old, with the Dutch side eyeing a fee in the region of £40m-£45m this month.
The teenager, who is a product of the Eredivisie outfit’s academy, has has started 15 times in the league to datescoring two goals and registering four assists – an astonishing record for a centre-back of his tender age.
The report also states that the Blues are willing to part ways with a number of players in order to raise the funds to move for Hat, who is seen as a player for present and future with their youth and versatility.
Such a move could end the search for another defensive option, arguably offering a cheaper alternative while also providing a serious upgrade given their numbers this campaign.
Why Hato would be a better option than Guehi for Chelsea
Crystal Palace central defender Marc Guehi moved to Selhurst Park in An £18m deal from Chelsea back in the summer of 2021 – after impressing in the Championship for Swansea City the season before.
However, in recent days, now the English representative has urged a return to the club from his childhoodthree and a half years after leaving Most – but could cost around £75m – quite simply a crazy fee.
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It wouldn’t be the first time the club have sacked someone prematurely before re-signing them, with Romelu Lukaku being just one example, costing the hierarchy £97.5m in the same window.
His move is proof that comebacks don’t always go to plan, underscoring the need for Maresca to stay away from the 24-year-old and prioritize a move for Ajax youngster Hat.
When comparing the duo’s stats from the current campaign, the Dutch youngster has vastly outperformed Guehi in various key areas, underscoring what an excellent addition he would be to the West London outfit.
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How Jorrel Hato compares to Marco Guehi in the 2024/25 season |
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|---|---|---|
|
Statistics (at 90) |
hato |
Guehi |
|
Games played |
16 |
19 |
|
Goals and assists |
6 |
3 |
|
Progressive mounts |
1.5 |
0.4 |
|
Progressive additions |
5.2 |
4.1 |
|
Adding accuracy |
89% |
83% |
|
Tackles won |
1.5 |
0.8 |
|
Cuts have been made |
0.7 |
0.5 |
|
Airports won |
70% |
62% |
|
Statistics via FBref |
||
Hato, who was called “one of the most talented CBs of his generation in Europe” talent hunter Jacek Kulig, finished more progressive carries and additions to 90 – showing how he would fit in perfectly in Maresca’s system, which requires his back line to be able to play from the back.
A carry is considered progressive if the ball is moved towards the opponent’s goal at least 10 yards from its starting point or carried into the penalty area.
Defensively, the Dutchman also dominated Guehi, winning more tackles per 90, while he was also better in more aerial battles, indeed proving that he is a true top all-round defender despite his young age.
Given the huge difference in quality and price, the Blues must seriously consider a move for the Ajax star instead of Guehi, arguably offering Hat the chance to improve further given that he is six years younger than the Palace man.
Any deal is likely to cost the hierarchy another decent chunk of money, so it’s crucial they get the right decision to prevent any funds from being wasted, with Hatta the perfect option to star in the back line under Maresca.
