Como are preparing to hold fresh talks with Chelsea over an improved bid for centre-back Trevoh Chalobah, as the Italian club managed by Cesc Fabregas looks to move closer to Chelsea’s £35 million valuation of the England international.
Como are expected to sit down with Chelsea on Saturday to discuss an improved offer for defender Trevoh Chalobah, as they look to close the gap on the Premier League club’s valuation of the player. The Italian side, managed by former Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas, have so far proposed £25 million for the 27-year-old, having already been rejected twice, while Chelsea are holding out for around £35 million including add-ons. Chalobah himself is understood to be keen on the move.
Como’s pursuit of Chalobah
Having seen their opening two proposals turned down, Como have been working to structure an offer that meets Chelsea’s asking price. Fabregas has identified Chalobah as one of the club’s priority defensive targets this summer, and Como are prepared to offer him a long-term contract as part of their pitch. The club believe the defender is drawn to the prospect of regular first-team football, having spent periods in and out of Chelsea’s starting line-up in recent seasons.
Inter Milan have also held discussions over signing Chalobah, as they are looking to bring in two new centre-backs this summer. However, Inter are currently prioritising other defensive targets, giving Como confidence that they can still win the race for the player if they are able to match Chelsea’s valuation.
Why Chelsea are willing to sell
Chelsea are open to selling Chalobah in part because, having come through the club’s academy, any transfer fee would count as pure profit under the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules. With two years still remaining on his contract, Chelsea are under little pressure to accept a reduced offer, giving them room to hold firm on their valuation during negotiations.
Lacroix set to strengthen Chelsea’s defence
Chelsea’s willingness to let Chalobah leave is also being viewed internally as linked to their move for Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix, who is due to undergo a medical today ahead of a £55 million transfer. Lacroix, a France international, joined Palace from Wolfsburg for £18 million and has since established himself as an outstanding performer in both the Premier League and European competition. His arrival is expected to strengthen head coach Enzo Maresca’s defensive options, making Chelsea more comfortable sanctioning Chalobah’s departure.
Should the move to Como go through, Chalobah would become one of the highest-profile signings in the club’s history, continuing an ambitious recruitment drive since Fabregas took charge.
