Chelsea have now set out to strengthen their backline, having made a shaky start to the Premier League season from a defensive point of view.
The Blues have already shipped 12 goals, the highest number in the Premier League, and Rory Jennings believes the defence is a problem which needs to be rectified immediately, saying: “They’re on 12 goals conceded. We’re on course for Swindon Town’s record. We genuinely are.
“If it continues at this rate, we’re going to concede in excess of 90 goals this season. That needs to stop. I don’t quite know where it’s going so wrong. Xabi Alonso came in, it was clearly the remit to sort out the back line.”
|
Ranking |
Premier League’s worst defences |
Played |
Goals conceded |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Chelsea |
5 |
12 |
|
2= |
Ipswich Town |
5 |
11 |
|
2= |
Crystal Palace |
5 |
11 |
|
4= |
Newcastle United |
5 |
9 |
|
4= |
Aston Villa |
5 |
9 |
Left-back has been a problem position, with Jorrel Hato struggling in the 2-2 draw against Hull City at home, receiving a SofaScore match rating of 5.9, which was the lowest of any player on the pitch.
The west Londoners have since entered the market for a new left-back, and they are now plotting a raid on Premier League rivals Crystal Palace.
Chelsea eyeing move for Tyrick Mitchell
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Chelsea have now stormed into the race to sign Tyrick Mitchell, who could be available for a cut-price fee, given that his contract is set to expire at the end of the season.
However, Crystal Palace are determined to keep hold of their left-back, who has been one of their most important players, making 55 appearances in all competitions last season, with Oliver Glasner’s side going on to win the Europa Conference League.
Dan Cook of HLTCO has been particularly impressed by the left-back’s consistency, and expressed hope he remains at Palace for his entire career.
However, with the £50,000-a-week full-back’s deal set to expire next summer, he has a big decision to make, as he could be in his prime years at 27-years-old, and he will no doubt want to add to his two England caps.
The London-born defender hasn’t made an appearance for the Three Lions since March 2022, making his debut in a 2-1 victory against Switzerland in a friendly.
The Blues are already well-stocked at left-back, having signed Pep Chavarria in the summer, but should Hato not improve his performances between now and January, Mitchell could be a solid addition to Alonso’s squad.