Chelsea have turned their attention to Athletic Club centre-back Aitor Paredes in their search to strengthen their defensive line
The London club are confident given the form and fitness difficulties their defenders have struggled with this season Paredes is the key element to strengthen your defense. Chelsea's defenders, including Wesley Fofana and Trevoh Chalobah, were absent all season through injury, meaning the team struggled to keep clean sheets. Benoit Badiashile is also suffering from muscle fatigue, increasing the need for new signings.
Paredes' profile: The solution to Chelsea's defensive woes?
Paredes, 23, has caught the attention of Chelsea thanks to his good season at Athletic Club. Product from the Basque Club quarry, has become a mainstay in the team's defense. His recent notable performances include a goal in a 2-0 win against Sevilla.
The Athletic Club, currently in fourth place in LaLiga and on the way to qualifying for the Champions League, holds Paredes in high regard. Chelsea value his ability to start the game from the back and his strong athletic profile. Paredes, known for his strength and speed in recovery, is emerging as a possible candidate for the Spanish national team at the next European Championships.
SunSport reports that Chelsea have sent scouts to watch Paredes in action up to seven times this season. Although Athletic Club were hesitant to set a price, it is estimated that the player could be available for around £20 million.
The 25 million euro offer
Paredes hasn't just attracted interest from Chelsea; Real Madrid and Inter Milan also showed their attraction for the defender. This situation could accelerate Chelsea's negotiations, especially considering that two of their current defenders, Thiago Silva and Trevoh Chalobah, have been linked with possible moves to other clubs.
Chelsea are in a critical situation regarding their defensive line and signing Aitor Paredes seems to be a viable and promising solution. His youth, skill and potential make him an ideal candidate to strengthen the London team. With his contract running until 2025, negotiations over his transfer will be crucial to Chelsea's winter market strategies. Time will tell whether Paredes becomes the Stamford Bridge team's new defensive stronghold.