Due to the free transfers of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen, manager Thomas Tuchel's primary goal this summer will be to sign at least two new centre-halves.
Unsurprisingly, a lot of players have been connected with a move to Stamford Bridge, and we've decided to take a look at some of the more likely candidates in this piece.
Jules Kounde
Following the completion of the takeover, it appears that a move for the France international will be the Blues' first piece of transfer business under the new owners.
Kounde allegedly has a verbal agreement to join Chelsea, with the only stumbling block appearing to be a pricing deal with Sevilla. A sum in excess of £50 million is thought to be sufficient to get the player to sign.
Presnel Kimpembe
Tuchel is said to be interested in Kounde's international teammate, who he worked with at PSG.
Kimpembe is a left-footed player, therefore he would presumably replace Rudiger on the left side of the back three. Given the Frenchman's difficulties in renewing his contract, he may be available this summer.
Josko Gvardiol
Reports in Germany suggest that the Blues have been keeping a close eye on the young Croatian defender’s development at RB Leipzig, with there being a possibility that a bid will be lodged for the player in the coming months.
Gvardiol is left-footed like Kimpembe so it is more than likely that only one of the two will be signed. At 20 years of age, the Leipzig player is pretty inexperienced and he may need some time to adapt to the rigours of the Premier League.
Jose Gimenez
The Uruguayan has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge on and off in recent years, so someone in Chelsea's recruitment department appears to be anxious to bring him in.
Given Kounde's priorities, Gimenez would appear to be a last-ditch option if Cesar Azpilicueta decides to leave the London club. Because the Spaniard is rumored to be planning a return to his homeland, a replacement may be required.
Kalidou Koulibaly
The Italian press have once again been linking Chelsea with a bid for the Senegalese colossus. The defender will turn 31 in June but he could be available for a reasonable price with just one year remaining on his contract.
Koulibaly is known for his physicality and you would expect him to adjust to life in English football pretty quickly if the Blues do decide to snap him up.
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