With Huijsen off to Real Madrid, Chelsea shift focus to Guéhi, Hato and Branthwaite

Following the confirmation of Dean Huijsen’s move to Real Madrid, Chelsea have shifted focus to alternative defensive targets. The club are now eyeing Marc Guéhi, Jorrel Hato, and Jarrad Branthwaite as their primary candidates for reinforcing the backline.

As the summer transfer window approaches, Chelsea are planning a major overhaul in their defensive structure. The board aims to bring in centre-backs who align with Enzo Maresca’s footballing philosophy — defenders with strong passing ability and a modern profile. Huijsen had initially been the priority at the start of the summer, but the collapse of that deal has forced the club to redraw their plans.

Huijsen makes his choice: Chelsea step aside

Spanish centre-back Dean Huijsen, aged 20, made headlines in the 2024 summer window after moving from Juventus to Bournemouth. His performances in the Premier League quickly attracted attention, showcasing dominance in aerial duels, composure in build-up play, and mature positioning — all of which drew interest from Europe’s elite.

As confirmed by Fabrizio Romano, Huijsen has chosen Real Madrid as his next destination. The Spanish giants see him as a long-term investment, and the financial terms of the transfer have been agreed. In response, Chelsea have adjusted their shortlist accordingly.

Questions remain in Chelsea’s current defensive setup

Chelsea enter the summer window with growing uncertainty in their back line. Axel Disasi has joined Aston Villa on loan after struggling to adapt to Enzo Maresca’s tactical system. Meanwhile, Trevoh Chalobah and Benoît Badiashile have yet to convince the new coaching staff and may be allowed to leave if suitable offers arrive. In this context, Chelsea are expected to target at least two new centre-backs — if not more — before the window closes.

Chelsea’s new shortlist: Guéhi, Hato, Branthwaite

According to The Guardian, Chelsea are now focusing on three new centre-back targets: Marc Guéhi of Crystal Palace, Jorrel Hato of Ajax, and Jarrad Branthwaite of Everton. All three are young but highly regarded for their competitive maturity and football intelligence.

Marc Guéhi: Premier League experience and leadership profile

A product of Chelsea’s academy, Marc Guéhi joined Crystal Palace in 2021 and has since established himself as a consistent performer in the Premier League. Now 24, Guéhi captains Palace and is seen as a defensive leader both on and off the pitch.

According to Sky Sports:

Guéhi has drawn attention for his steady performances, and last summer, Newcastle United had a £65 million bid for him rejected. Palace chairman Steve Parish described Guéhi as “one of the most talented defenders of his generation” and stated that he should only leave for “superstar money.”

This statement underscores Palace’s valuation and unwillingness to part with the defender easily. However, with Guéhi entering the final year of his contract, this summer presents a potentially decisive moment. From Chelsea’s perspective, Guéhi is seen as a Premier League-proven, ready-to-start defender with reliable qualities.

Jorrel Hato: Europe’s rising left-footed centre-back

Jorrel Hato, aged 19, is one of the most promising defenders to emerge from the Ajax academy in recent years. Since 2023, he has featured regularly for the first team. As a left-footed centre-back, Hato stands out for his technical quality and vision on the ball.

His comfort using his left foot allows him to manage possession under pressure and orchestrate passing sequences from deep. Hato’s technical poise exceeds that of many players in his position. His Ajax schooling has also equipped him with positional awareness, calmness under tempo, and command of the defensive line — all qualities that reflect his maturity well beyond his age.

In modern football, where defenders are expected to contribute to build-up play and control tempo from the back, Hato’s skillset suggests not just potential but system-fit reliability. For Chelsea, he is viewed not only as a high-ceiling prospect but as a long-term investment compatible with Maresca’s philosophy.

Jarrad Branthwaite: physicality, consistency, and continental interest

Jarrad Branthwaite, the 22-year-old Everton centre-back, has gained attention in the Premier League for his strength and dominance in aerial challenges. His performances have not only cemented his reputation domestically but also attracted major clubs across Europe.

Branthwaite’s transfer status and Everton’s financial posture

Branthwaite’s consistency has caught the eye of clubs like Manchester United and Real Madrid. According to The Guardian, United submitted a bid last summer worth £35 million plus £10 million in add-ons, which Everton rejected. The club value Branthwaite above £70 million, using Harry Maguire’s £80 million fee as a benchmark.

ESPN report that Real Madrid have also added Branthwaite to their list of potential reinforcements. However, Everton are holding firm on their valuation, expecting any deal to exceed £70 million.

Given the club’s ongoing financial pressures under the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules, Everton may be more inclined to seriously consider incoming offers this summer. Branthwaite’s ambition to play European football, combined with the club’s fiscal reality, could pave the way for a high-profile move in the coming months.