After missing the start of the season, summer signing Liam Delap is back in the mix for Chelsea, looking to open his Premier League account for the club.
Delap was not part of England’s plans over the break, so he stayed behind to train with Enzo Maresca and the rest of the first team as they prepared for their upcoming fixture against Burnley.
The striker was spotted alongside Axel Disasi, who trained despite not having featured since January, while the Blues could be eyeing a new centre-back when the window reopens.
Maresca made it clear early on that he wanted to strengthen his defence after Levi Colwill picked up a serious injury in pre-season. The club, however, remained resolute in their decision against further expenditure in that area, despite some rumours.
Liam Delap rates Chelsea target Murillo ahead of Virgil van Dijk
Chelsea have previously shown interest in Nottingham Forest centre-back Murillo, who has quickly established himself as a top prospect since arriving in the Premier League.
Delap seems to be a fan of the Brazilian defender, even rating him above Liverpool’s Van Dijk when asked about the toughest opponents he has faced.
“You know who I really like? Murillo, at Forest. I have [played against Van Dijk], but I think that’s the stereotypical answer. Obviously he’s top, but I really like Murillo,” the striker stated.
It might disappoint Chelsea fans that Murillo did not mention them when listing his preferred destinations. Instead, he named Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United as his top choices.
Chelsea considering centre-back options
With Colwill still sidelined, Chelsea could look to bring in defensive reinforcements during the January window.
One player being monitored is Joel Ordonez, who has formed a solid partnership with Moises Caicedo while playing for Ecuador.
The club are also tracking developments at Barcelona, where Ronald Araujo has been identified as a potential target.
Additionally, Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen might be available for lower fees if Chelsea decide to pursue them.
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