Chelsea appear to be facing defeat in their pursuit of Dean Huijsen, with the club now identifying three alternative targets to strengthen their defense, including Ajax’s Jorrel Hato.
Huijsen, who has become one of the most talked-about players in the summer transfer market due to his £50m release clause, has attracted interest from clubs across Europe. Real Madrid have expressed strong interest in the 20-year-old Spain international and are confident of securing a deal. However, conflicting reports suggest Arsenal and Liverpool may be leading the race for his signature.
As it stands, Chelsea seems to be out of the picture, with speculation growing that they may consider moving on from Wesley Fofana due to his ongoing injury problems this season.
Get Instantly Update By: Joining Our Whatapps and Telegram Channel
According to The Guardian, Chelsea have turned their attention to three potential alternatives to Huijsen.
One of the targets is Marc Guehi, a former Chelsea player who has since captained Crystal Palace and earned a place in the England squad. Guehi, who left Stamford Bridge in 2021, was the subject of interest from Newcastle United last summer, but Palace rejected bids of up to £65m. With just one year left on his contract at Selhurst Park, he could be available for a move.
Another option is Ajax’s Jorrel Hato, a talented teenager who has been a regular starter for the Dutch club since 2023. The final alternative on Chelsea’s radar is Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, who attracted interest from Manchester United last summer and had even been linked with Real Madrid before Carlo Ancelotti’s departure.
Chelsea’s defense remains uncertain, with several players’ futures in question. Axel Disasi has been loaned out to Aston Villa after being deemed surplus to requirements, Trevoh Chalobah was loaned out last summer and recalled in January due to injuries, and Benoit Badiashile has frequently been linked with a move away from the club.
