Chelsea are assessing defensive options ahead of the January transfer window, with Jarrad Branthwaite and Nnamdi Collins among the players being considered.
Sunderland defeat and defensive concerns
Chelsea lost 1-0 to Sunderland, who had been bottom of the Premier League, and Levi Colwill was withdrawn at half-time during the defeat.
Sources continue to suggest that Chelsea are unhappy with the team's defensive resilience and the lack of cohesion between individuals.
Branthwaite remains under consideration
Flashscore reported that the futures of Wesley Fofana and Malo Gusto had already come into question.
Flashscore reported that Jarrad Branthwaite remains a player Chelsea have been keeping an eye on for next year.
Collins emerges as a new name
Nnamdi Collins, 22, is emerging as a new name on Chelsea's radar. He is capable of playing at both right-back and centre-back, and has also represented Germany at international level.
Collins came through Borussia Dortmund's academy and has been with Eintracht Frankfurt since 2023.
Interest in Collins and recruitment work
Flashscore reported that Chelsea are understood to be among those interested in Collins. Premier League clubs are linked with the possibility of bringing him to England.
Sources suggest that Chelsea's recruitment team is carrying out extensive work to identify potential targets who could strengthen the squad in 2027 and beyond.
