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Chelsea head coach Mauricio Pochettino has been rather unlucky with injuries and setbacks since the start of the season. Despite this, his array of options in centre defence doesn't get spoken about enough.
Thiago Silva, Levi Colwill and Axel Disasi have all played often throughout the campaign with Benoit Badiashile slowly recovering from his injury to return. Wesley Fofana and Trevoh Chalobah are currently out injured which has opened the door for Cobham graduate Alfie Gilchrist to make over six senior appearances.
And despite the options at Pochettino's disposal, Chelsea always seem to be linked with new central defenders. One player who was on their radar for some time is Barcelona and France star Jules Kounde.
The 25-year-old, valued at €100m (£85m) by CIES Football Observatory, opted to join the Catalan giants over the Blues in 2022 and became a regular under Xavi last season. However, his performances this season have created doubt over his future and reports in Spain are suggesting that Barca could look to cash in.
SPORT has claimed that there has been 'enormous concern' from the club hierarchy and coaching staff regarding his performance levels. It's believed that Kounde is 'no longer untouchable' and the Spanish champions would consider offers for him and ex-Chelsea defender man Andreas Christensen.
football.london says: I'm a huge fan of Chelsea's defence. Thiago Silva brings assurance, Disasi brings a 'Antonio Rudiger-feel' to the play and Colwill plays with the club badge in his heart. However, Fofana's ACL problems and Chalobah's uncertain future means a new face will be needed.
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