Chelsea create three-player shortlist of centre-back targets | OneFootball

Chelsea have created a three player shortlist of centre-back targets for the summer transfer window.

The West Londoners will target Marc Guehi, Jarrad Branthwaite or Jorrel Hato as alternatives to Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen. Chelsea are keen to sign Huijsen and willing to activate the player’s £50m release clause, though internally are prepared for disappointment.

Real Madrid is the player’s preferred destination as the Spaniards weigh up activating his release clause, while Liverpool are understood to be his favoured Premier League destination should that move not materialise.

Chelsea are assessing alternatives with Guehi, Branthwaite and Hato options, according to The Guardian. Guehi came though the academy at Chelsea but departed for Crystal Palace in 2021 having made just two senior appearances.

The 24-year-old is now a regular in the England squad and has captained Palace to the FA Cup final this season. Palace do not want to sell Guehi, but the defender will have just 12 months remaining on his contract this summer. The Eagles do not plan to allow Guehi to enter the final season of his deal.

Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is also a player of interest. The Toffees turned down two offers from Manchester United for the centre-back last summer, the highest believed to be around £45m.

Jorell Hato is the third name on Chelsea’s wish list. Still just 19, Hato has already made 107 appearances for Ajax and has earned six caps for the Netherlands at senior level. Hato has featured primarily at left-back for Ajax this season, scoring three times and providing six assists in 47 appearances. Liverpool are also keen.

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