Chelsea are considering Lazio defender Mario Gila as an alternative to Dean Huijsen who’s close to joining Real Madrid according to reports.
The Blues are once again set for a busy summer and could look to sell as many as seven or eight players in order to fund their business.
Chelsea face a critical window with the club looking to sign a striker, centre back and right footed attacker to strengthen Enzo Maresca’s squad.
Chelsea consider move for Lazio star Gila
Whilst a striker is the main priority, the Blues are also looking to bring a centre back in despite having plenty on their books already.
There’s set be a major reshuffle in the centre back department with Renato Veiga, Axel Disasi and Trevoh Chalobah candidates to leave.
The Blues had identified Huijsen as their main target, but the 20-year-old is now closing in on a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid.
Chelsea will of course have a shortlist of targets and TEAMtalk journalist Fraser Fletcher has revealed a new name under consideration.
He took to X.com and said:
“Excl: Understand Lazio defender Mario Gila is one player Chelsea are considering as an alternative to Dean Huijsen, who is closing in on a move to Real Madrid. #CFC”
Gila is under contract with the Serie A club until 2027 and has made 41 appearances for Lazio in all competitions this season scoring twice.
The 24-year-old has yet to be capped by Spain but has established himself as an important player for Lazio, who currently sit fifth in Serie A.
Guehi and Branthwaite alternative targets
Chelsea considered making a move for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi in January but opted against it, although it’s understood they remain keen on the England international.
Guehi will have just one year left on his contract this summer, and could therefore be available for a cut price deal, which would certainly appeal to Chelsea.
Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite is another name that’s been mentioned, and the 22-year-old was strongly linked with Manchester United last summer.
Whoever Chelsea sign they need to make sure they add leadership and experience to the backline as well as quality.