Chelsea news: January move unlikely for defensive target

"Chelsea may address their defensive situation in January, given that they have struggled in that department so far this season. Enzo Maresca's side have recorded only three clean sheets in their 10 matches across all competitions, and it is being shown that Levi Colwill's absence is being felt. Colwill is out for the foreseeable future after tearing his ACL during pre-season, and this has left Maresca with a shortage of quality in the centre of defence."

"I don't think Chelsea will do anything in January. Liverpool were linked in the summer. Again, I'm not sure they'll try and sign him in January. Both of those clubs will be monitoring his long-term situation at Barcelona. If Barcelona do give any indication that they would sell at Araujo, I think there'll be other clubs willing to sign the Uruguay international. Come next summer, if Barcelona's financial situation hasn't improved, then it could open the door for a possible move away."

"Araujo has had a difficult start to the season with Barcelona, where he has struggled to re-establish himself as a regular starter. He is not seen as an ideal fit for Hansi Flick's ultra-aggressive high-line approach, and this could open the door for Chelsea to make an approach in 2026. Coupled with the La Liga giants' financial woes, the stars could soon align on this one."

Chelsea have struggled defensively, recording only three clean sheets in ten matches across all competitions, and are feeling the absence of Levi Colwill, who is out for the foreseeable future after tearing his ACL in pre-season. The injury has left a shortage of quality in the centre of defence, creating the possibility of addressing the position when the transfer market re-opens in January. Ronald Araujo has been linked with Chelsea, but the club are not planning an approach in January. Monitoring of Araujo's long-term situation at Barcelona will continue, and a move could become feasible next summer or in 2026 if Barcelona's financial situation forces a sale.

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