Thomas Tuchel has revealed his plans for Chelsea’s defence as they look to a future without Thiago Silva and Cesar Azpilicueta.
The Chelsea skipper penned a contract extension, seeing him renew his deal for an extra season, while Silva has one year remaining on his contract at Stamford Bridge.
At 32 and 37 years of age each, the Blues will be hoping to bring in reinforcements this summer in case their experienced duo slow down.
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With Kalidou Koulibaly having arrived from Napoli for a fee of £34 million, the Senegal international is another experienced head, at 31-years-old.
Wesley Fofana has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge this summer, and at 21-years-old, he could prove to be the future of Chelsea’s defence.
Having had two bids already rejected by the Foxes, Chelsea are set to launch a third bid for the defender as they look to add to their defence by the end of the transfer window.
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However, Chelsea are said to be wary of breaking the transfer record for a defender after seeing the criticism of Harry Maguire after Manchester United signed the Englishman.
The likes of Josko Gvardiol have also been linked, with the Croatian unavailable this summer.
The Blues could look to bring the RB Leipzig defender to the club next summer as they hope to build a long-term defence.
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Levi Colwill has joined Brighton and Hove Albion on loan from the Blues and is expected to return next season to fight for his place in Tuchel’s side.
The head coach has outlined the need for plans to replace Silva and Azpilicueta in the future.
Speaking to The Daily Mail, Tuchel said: ‘It is a lot of experience (with Silva, Azpilicueta and Koulibaly).
"They have their quality and know what they are doing.
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“We need to make sure we have a new generation to take over in the next years but the guys are strong, that is why they have our trust. Yes, there needs to be a balance.
“The game, in general, is very physical and demands a lot. Azpi is the legend that he is, Thiago is still very important to us.
"When we had the chance to sign Kalidou we did it because we believe he has some years ahead of him.
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“But, in general, it is the fact that — like the goalkeeper and the two holding midfielders — they are in their thirties and that is just what it is.”
Topics: Chelsea, Cesar Azpilicueta, Thomas Tuchel, Thiago Silva, Football, Transfers, Wesley Fofana
Nick Emms