According to Prominent Italian Journalist Fabrizio Romano Chelsea set to land yet another Premier League standout as player rejects Man United to give Chelsea the green light to summer move, Maresca in full support

Chelsea Gain Edge in Pursuit of Premier League Defender as Player Signals Interest

Chelsea have reportedly received a boost in their efforts to sign a Premier League defender this summer.

Following the arrival of Liam Delap to reinforce their attacking options, the Blues are now focusing on strengthening both the wings and their defensive line. Jamie Gittens has emerged as a potential addition on the flanks, while Ajax starlet Jorrel Hato is also being considered to shore up the backline.

However, Hato isn’t the only defensive option on Chelsea’s radar.

According to recent reports, Chelsea have made a move for Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite, with several other clubs also expressing interest in the 22-year-old.

Journalist Simon Phillips, speaking on Si Phillips Talks Chelsea, revealed that Branthwaite is open to joining Enzo Maresca’s squad—giving Chelsea a potential upper hand in any transfer race. This could be a setback for Manchester United, who are also eyeing the Englishman, having already missed out on Delap to the Blues.

Despite having multiple central defenders at their disposal—such as Levi Colwill, Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile, and Mamadou Sarr—Chelsea still appear intent on bringing in further reinforcements.

Head coach Enzo Maresca reportedly supports a move for Branthwaite. According to Phillips’ Substack report, Maresca is prepared to back the club in their pursuit of the defender during this window.

That said, Branthwaite won’t be a budget buy. Everton are expected to demand as much as £75 million, a figure Chelsea may hesitate to meet given their existing defensive depth.

Nonetheless, Branthwaite’s situation is one to watch closely as the transfer window progress