Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has openly called for the signing of a new centre-back following Levi Colwill’s ACL injury, which is expected to sideline the defender for between six and nine months.
The setback, confirmed after surgery on August 7, 2025, occurred during pre-season training on August 4 and has created a significant gap in Chelsea’s defensive structure.
Colwill had been a pivotal figure in the club’s FIFA Club World Cup triumph on July 13, 2025, and his absence will be keenly felt.
Speaking after Chelsea’s 2-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in their first pre-season match at Stamford Bridge, Maresca admitted the club might need to act quickly in the transfer market.
Tosin is regarded as the most natural fit to replace Colwill in the central centre-back role within Maresca’s in-possession back three.
Josh, meanwhile, showed promising glimpses in that position against Leverkusen, yet relying on the teenager for an entire campaign, one that includes both the Premier League and Champions League, could prove to be a considerable gamble.
The injury has struck at a delicate moment, as Chelsea have already spent over £200 million in the summer transfer window.
Moreover, UEFA’s financial fair play rules require that any new signing be weighed carefully against the club’s long-term financial sustainability.
This means that, while there is a clear need for reinforcements, the club must proceed with both urgency and caution.
In addition to seeking a new centre-back, Chelsea are pursuing high-profile moves for Alejandro Garnacho and Xavi Simons. However, such acquisitions, along with a defensive signing, will likely depend on further player sales.
One of the biggest current storylines surrounds Nicolas Jackson, who was left out of the squad against Leverkusen amid intensifying transfer speculation.
Reports indicate the striker is exploring a move away after just two seasons, with interest from clubs in England, Spain and Italy.
His potential departure could free up wages and open space for an attacking arrival, yet it would also leave Maresca with limited options up front unless a suitable replacement is found.
On the pitch against Leverkusen, Chelsea took the lead in the 17th minute through Willian Estevão, who reacted quickest to slot home from close range after Cole Palmer’s chipped effort rebounded off the crossbar.
João Pedro doubled the advantage in the second half with a composed finish at the end of a slick team move.
The performance offered a clear glimpse into Maresca’s tactical blueprint, as Chelsea fluidly alternated between a 4-2-3-1 shape and a back three in possession, occasionally transitioning into a midfield diamond.
Chelsea now turn their attention to AC Milan, whom they face on Sunday in their final pre-season outing at Stamford Bridge.
That match will provide Maresca with one last opportunity to assess his squad, refine his tactical approach, and potentially integrate any late signings before the Premier League opener against Crystal Palace on August 17.
