Chelsea are currently preparing for a £90 million double transfer swoop for Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen and Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi in a bid to boost their defence for the 2025/26 season. Enzo Maresca has been eager to address the side’s defensive inadequacies, especially now that Wesley Fofana is ruled out through injury.
Huijsen, now aged 20 and already capped by Spain, has given an eye-catching performance this season in his debut Premier League season. After joining Bournemouth from Juventus in 2024, Huijsen made his way into 28 league matches and managed to score twice and contribute with an assist.
His tactical knowledge and phenomenal ball control have made him a target for transfer by European sides such as Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. But the Blues seem to be the frontrunners and are said to be ready to activate his £50 million release clause.
Meanwhile, Marc Guehi formerly worked with Chelsea in their academy and is now one of Crystal Palace’s most trusted center-backs. He has featured for England 23 times already and was part of the squad that carried the Eagles into the FA Cup final this season as their captain.
His contract with Palace expires in 2026, but the club could listen to offers close to £40 million to avoid losing him on a free next year. However, for the Blues, getting to the Champions League qualification remains central to signing the duo. The Blues are currently fighting over a top-five spot in the Premier League.
Chelsea Embrace Exit for Wesley Fofana While Marseille Show Interest
Chelsea are quite eager to part ways with their injury-prone defender Wesley Fofana. There is a strong interest from Ligue 1 side Marseille in acquiring the French international.
At 24, Fofana has had a difficult time establishing himself at Stamford Bridge since his £70 million transfer from Leicester City in August 2022. Injuries have restricted him to 34 appearances across all competitions for three seasons.
At Stamford Bridge, there are possibilities under consideration for him either on a permanent transfer or on a year-long loan basis. A formal offer is expected to come from Marseille, who have long been admirers of the defender.
His impending exit fits in with Chelsea’s broader strategy to attempt to remodel the backline with Dean Huijsen and Marc Guehi. Fofana’s departure will secure funds and free up spaces for future defensive signings.
