Chelsea are interested in bringing Atletico Madrid centre-back Jose Maria Gimenez to Stamford Bridge in January, according to journalist Rudy Galetti.
The Lowdown: Defensive targets
The Blues have hit a tough patch under Graham Potter, losing their last three domestic games alongside dealing with serious injuries to key defenders Reece James and Wesley Fofana, could lead to a busy January window at the club.
Todd Boehly hasn’t been shy when putting his hand in his pocket since he arrived, splashing €282m (£246.5m) in the summer but the defensive fragilities have sent the rumour mill into full spin with Chelsea linked with a new move for another defender.
The Latest: Galetti’s comments
The Italian journalist highlighted the Blues’ defensive vulnerabilities and stated they could use the January window to strengthen their back line.
His report states that the financial issues that Atletico are experiencing have been exacerbated by their premature exit from European competitions, opening the door to winter exits which has seen the Uruguayan linked to Stamford Bridge.
Galetti suggests that interest could become concrete after the World Cup.
The Verdict: Chelsea should swoop
The 27-year-old has been a stalwart for Atleti after joining almost ten years ago from Danubio in his homeland, he’s since grown to become an icon for the club making 263 appearances and winning two La Liga titles.
He fits the bill of exactly what the West Londoners need right now, boasting incredible experience but at only 27 he’d be a perfect replacement for the ageing Thiago Silva, who sees his contract expire at the end of the season, whilst also helping Fofana mould into the defender he has the potential to be.
Previously dubbed a “monster” by football writer Muhammed Butt, Gimenez is currently valued at only €40m (£35m) by Transfermarkt, with Atleti’s current financial problems and the star set to enter the final two years of his contract in the summer, he could be a bargain for the Blues.
