Straight from Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea appear ready to spend big in pursuit of Barcelona’s defensive stalwarts. Reports suggest the Blues are planning a staggering €150 million bid to secure Jules Koundé and Ronald Araújo, both seen as key targets to strengthen their backline. Manager Enzo Maresca is eager to establish a formidable defensive pairing at Stamford Bridge to replace Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana and build a long-term foundation for success.
Additionally, Chelsea have set their sights on Paris Saint-Germain center-back Willian Pacho as a potential acquisition for 2025. At just 23 years old, Pacho might be available for a surprisingly reasonable fee, making him an intriguing option.
Under Maresca’s guidance, Chelsea currently sit third in the Premier League after 13 matches—a remarkable turnaround given the significant squad changes during the summer. The team’s performances have been encouraging, with standout contributions from Cole Palmer and a resurgent Nicolas Jackson, alongside a steady defensive unit.
Despite their promising form, Chelsea remain active in the transfer market. Speculation is rife about their €150 million move for Koundé and Araújo, as well as interest in other defensive options like Bayer Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tah and Club Brugge’s Joel Orondez.
Koundé and Araújo are no strangers to Chelsea’s radar. Koundé was close to joining the club before his 2022 transfer to Barcelona, while Araújo narrowly missed out on a move to Stamford Bridge earlier this year. Meanwhile, PSG’s Willian Pacho has emerged as an unexpected but intriguing target. According to *Fichajes*, Chelsea have identified the Ecuadorian as a future option, despite his recent arrival at PSG on a five-year deal.
PSG, however, are reportedly unwilling to part with Pacho, who has become a crucial part of their squad since joining for a fee that could rise to €45 million. The Parisian club may reconsider if Chelsea presents a significant offer, especially if reinvestment opportunities arise. Pacho, for his part, is said to remain focused on his current performances, unaffected by the ongoing rumors.
With the January transfer window approaching, all eyes are on Chelsea as they aim to bolster their squad and solidify their position among the Premier League elite.
