Liam Rosenior has been in the spotlight all week as he settles into his new role at Chelsea, but there is still plenty happening behind the scenes with the January window open.
It has been almost a week since Rosenior took over, and he will have already started to spot where improvements are needed. The goalkeeper situation is one area that stands out, along with the options available in central defence.
Robert Sanchez still has not convinced supporters, and even though Filip Jorgensen pulled off a risky moment 40 yards from his own goal without being punished, Rosenior may not be fully sold on what he has seen between the sticks so far.
Trevoh Chalobah left Raul Jimenez wide open for Wolves’ goal last week, while Benoit Badiashile came under fire from Pat Nevin during Saturday’s match against Preston, making clear there are issues that need addressing in the backline.
A centre-back should be near the top of Chelsea’s shopping list this month if they decide to get involved in the window. Reports suggest they have got their eye on someone Cesc Fabregas once rated highly as a signing.
Several Premier League sides monitoring Como defender Jacobo Ramon
Despite being let go by Real Madrid after just six senior appearances, Jacobo Ramon has made a name for himself since joining Como for £2m last summer, quickly becoming one of Serie A’s standout young defenders.
The 20-year-old centre-back has played 16 times in Serie A this season, and Como have only lost three of those matches. He has scored twice and helped his side keep eight clean sheets.
Ramon was signed for just £2m and is already valued at closer to £25m. He is under contract until 2027, but given the interest in him from clubs across Europe, including Newcastle United, it will not be surprising if he moves on sooner rather than later.
According to Caught Offside, Chelsea are keeping tabs on him. Tottenham and Liverpool are also interested. Meanwhile, scouts from Newcastle United and Brighton have been spotted at several matches in recent months.
Real Madrid hold upper hand in Jacobo Ramon chase
Como’s Jacobo Ramon has become a name of interest for several Premier League sides, with a reported price tag of around £15m. Despite only recently turning 21, his rapid development in Serie A has drawn attention.
However, Real Madrid appear to have the advantage over their English rivals. When Como signed Ramon last summer, Madrid included a clause allowing them to re-sign him for just £7m.
Whether Los Blancos decide to activate that option could depend on the future of Antonio Rudiger. The German defender is out of contract this summer, and Ray Parlour has even floated the idea of him returning to Chelsea.
A partnership between Ramon and Rudiger would certainly give Chelsea more stability at centre-back than they currently have. Whether the club decides to move during January remains an open question.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
