Sources: Chelsea ‘frontrunners’ to sign 25-yr-old amid Reece James concerns
Chelsea are looking to strengthen at right-back with the addition of Guela Doue given Reece James’ injury record.
James’ injury-induced withdrawal from the England squad in the October international break was yet another warning sign that the Blues need to bolster at right-back.
The 25-year-old has struggled with bouts of injuries throughout his footballing career which he cannot seem to completely shrug off.
Moreover, with Malo Gusto’s recent poor discipline on the field for Chelsea, this has seen the club ramp up their interest for Strasbourg’s Doue.
Strasbourg’s Doue price tag revealed
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the Blues are monitoring the performances of the Ivorian.
Sources told Football Insider that both Aston Villa and Brighton are also in the race for Doue as he continues to impress in France.
However, the Blue Co. multi-club ownership connection between Chelsea and Strasbourg could be the deciding factor in tempting the 23-year-old to the Premier League ahead of other rivals.
Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, I explained: “Obviously, Chelsea are probably frontrunners due to their relationship with Strasbourg as both clubs are owned by Blue Co.
“So, that might give Chelsea an advantage in the pursuit of Doue as they have done before in the past, signing players from Strasbourg and some Chelsea players going out to the French club as well.
“You’re probably looking between £20-25million for Doue in his current form. He’s under contract with the French club until 2029, so they’re under no real pressure to sell him just now as well.”
Chelsea work on centre-back upgrades
At the heart of the defence, injuries and suspensions have also caused disarray for the Blues as they consider their options ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
Former Man United and Sunderland chief scout Mick Brown exclusively told Football Insider that Chelsea are working on a centre-back upgrade for January.
The long-term injury to Levi Colwill and niggling concerns for Wesley Fofana have left Enzo Maresca’s backline disjointed and weak.
Ronald Araujo is still an option for Chelsea, but his price tag may put off the west London outfit from splashing the cash.