Chelsea may be on the verge of derailing one of Tottenham Hotspur’s backup plans in the transfer market.
Tottenham, Chelsea’s London rivals, have reportedly been exploring options for a new right-back due to growing uncertainty surrounding Pedro Porro’s future at the club. However, it now seems that Chelsea, too, are looking into the same position after Reece James sustained another injury.
James, the 24-year-old defender, has struggled with fitness issues throughout his career, and his latest setback has prompted Chelsea to reconsider their right-back situation. With James’ fitness problems showing no sign of improvement, the club is reportedly considering the possibility of bringing in a new right-back in 2025.
Chelsea and Tottenham Eyeing Lutsharel Geertruida
One potential solution for Chelsea’s right-back dilemma could be Lutsharel Geertruida of RB Leipzig. Reports from CaughtOffside reveal that Chelsea have already shown interest in the Dutch defender. Interestingly, Tottenham is also tracking Geertruida as a potential replacement for Porro, further intensifying the competition between the two clubs for his signature.
Geertruida, who is reportedly eager to move to the Premier League, could be available for a fee of around €45 million (£37 million). His move to either club would significantly strengthen their respective defensive options.
While Chelsea’s right-back issues persist, they have had no such troubles on the opposite flank. Marc Cucurella, who plays as a left-back, has impressed, even managing to surprise Troy Deeney with his consistent performances in west London. However, this does little to address the ongoing concerns at right-back.
Chelsea’s Dilemma with Reece James
Although Chelsea’s interest in Geertruida is evident, it doesn’t signal the end of their faith in Reece James. The Blues are keen to understand the root cause of James’ recurring injuries, but they cannot afford to wait indefinitely if his situation fails to improve.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca is in a difficult position, as he cannot rely solely on Malo Gusto, who has faced some injury concerns himself this season. The club has been forced to deploy players like Moisés Caicedo and Wesley Fofana in right-back roles, but neither is a viable long-term solution for the position. Caicedo, in particular, has been one of the standout midfielders in the Premier League this season and is crucial to Chelsea’s central midfield. His talent is far better suited to that role, and his deployment as a right-back is seen as a stop-gap measure.
Despite his ability to adapt, Caicedo’s talents are being underutilized at right-back, especially considering how well he’s performed in the middle of the pitch. His contribution in Chelsea’s match against Aston Villa at right-back may have been effective, but it only emphasizes how crucial it is for the club to secure a proper right-back to avoid compromising the team’s overall balance.
What’s Next for Chelsea?
If James suffers another injury, Chelsea will be left with no choice but to sign a new right-back, whether that ends up being Geertruida or someone else. The club cannot afford to keep relying on players out of position, and with the January transfer window fast approaching, they must make crucial decisions to ensure they are adequately prepared for the remainder of the season.
While James’ future at Chelsea is still in question, the club’s interest in players like Geertruida suggests they are already preparing for all eventualities. Should James’ injuries persist, a new signing will be inevitable to provide stability in the right-back position for Chelsea’s defensive line.