Chelsea are working to finalise the signing of a new centre-back as they look to strengthen their defence ahead of the new season.
The Blues, who kick off their campaign this weekend, have already invested heavily in attack, bringing in Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens, and Estevao. However, with their backline now looking thin, a major defensive addition could be on the cards.
Manager Enzo Maresca faces a significant setback following news that Levi Colwill will miss much of the season after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury during preseason. Chelsea are now accelerating efforts to secure his replacement, with the “next few hours” expected to be decisive in determining whether their summer spending surpasses £300 million.
According to Bolavip, Chelsea are making a “final push” to sign Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapie, who is valued at around €60m. The Ecuadorian international is reportedly open to a move to West London, though Bayer are said to be holding out for €70m, especially after already losing key players including Florian Wirtz, Jonathan Tah, Jeremie Frimpong, and Granit Xhaka this summer.
Sources suggest Hincapie will not force an exit from Leverkusen, meaning the deal could depend entirely on how far Chelsea are prepared to go to land the 22-year-old.
Earlier in the transfer window, Chelsea signed Dutch youngster Jorrel Hato from Ajax, capable of playing both at left-back and centre-back. While the club could choose to integrate him into the starting squad, Maresca has emphasised the need for another experienced defender, and Chelsea’s BlueCo ownership may yet back him with another investment.
Hincapie’s market value is currently listed at €50m by Transfermarkt.
