Chelsea have accepted an initial official bid from Serie A side Como for defender Trevoh Chalobah, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. The move comes as a surprise shift in stance from the London club, who were previously understood to be intending to retain the England international.
Chalobah made 47 appearances for Chelsea across all competitions last season, becoming a key figure in the team’s defence due to a long-term injury to Levi Colwill. He even earned a place in England’s World Cup squad following an injury to Valentino Livaremento, though he did not feature in the tournament. Despite periods where he was placed in the club’s ‘Bomb Squad’ in 2023 and 2024, he has consistently been linked with a departure.
Como, managed by former Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas, are preparing for their first ever Champions League campaign and have identified Chalobah as a key target. Fabregas is reportedly keen to bring the defender to Italy, potentially raiding his former club for a proven player. Inter Milan have also expressed interest in Chalobah as a potential centre-back option, but Como have moved quickly with a formal bid.
The change in Chelsea’s position is believed to be influenced by new manager Xabi Alonso, who has been granted significant control over transfer decisions since his appointment. Despite potentially favouring a three-centre-back system, Alonso appears willing to allow Chalobah to leave. Chalobah’s Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) is currently listed at €51.6 million, and it remains to be seen whether Como’s initial bid matches that valuation.
Some analysis suggests that selling Chalobah may be a mistake, particularly given the potential departures of other centre-backs like Benoit Badiashile, Axel Disasi, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Wesley Fofana. With Josh Acheampong, Jorrel Hato, Levi Colwill, and potential signing Maxence Lacroix, Chelsea may still require Chalobah’s experience and proven performance in the squad. However, if a fee close to his ETV is received, a sale could be considered a sensible move for the club.
