Chelsea should be looking to strengthen in a lot of areas this summer. One of them is their defence. One could argue that it has been the Blues’ biggest weakness this season, especially since Liam Rosenior became manager. They seem far too open at the back and look exposed whenever there is a fast counter from the opponents.
Levi Colwill’s injury in the summer did not help matters. In his absence, it has become very clear that he is the club’s best defender. Enzo Maresca had asked for a replacement to be brought in but it was not provided to him. That has proven to be another error.
Even in January, it had looked like Chelsea were looking to make an addition there. Personal terms were said to be agreed with Jeremy Jacquet. But he eventually ended up signing with Liverpool. On the other hand, the Blues brought back Mamadou Sarr but his performances have shown that he is not ready yet.
The need of the hour is an experienced centre-back who will marshal the backline for Chelsea. But the latest defender to be linked with the Blues is an 18-year-old with less than a season of senior football to his name.
Chelsea interested in German youth international
According to a report from Sky Sport, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Chelsea, Newcastle, Paris Saint-Germain and Napoli are scouting Karim Coulibaly. The Blues, in particular, are specifically interested in the German U21 national player. They have been impressed with his development. There is already contact with the player side, but no discussions have taken place between the clubs yet.
Coulibaly has broken into the Werder Bremen first-team this season. And to be fair to him, he has been a regular starter from the very start. That takes some doing at the highest level.
That being said, being able to deliver for a Bundesliga side content to avoid relegation is very different to performing for Chelsea. So, Coulibaly would be another project signing at best.
Chelsea’s problems at the back won’t be solved by Karim Coulibaly
It is unfair to underestimate a player before he has even kicked a ball for the club. That being said, it is safe to assume that a 18-year-old centre-back won’t solve the multitude of issues Chelsea have right now.
They need players with experience. Those who are proven winners at the highest level. That winning culture needs to be brought back into the fold. Coulibaly won’t bring that to the table, and he cannot be expected to.
Of course, if Chelsea do end up signing more than one centre-back in the summer, then it is a different story. But if they go for only one, I would not be delighted if that turns out to be Coulibaly.
