Should Chelsea Target the £35M Star This January?

Former Chelsea player Florent Malouda has called on his old club to pursue Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi when the January transfer window opens. Guehi, who was close to joining Liverpool in the summer, is now seen as a key target for Chelsea as he enters the final year of his contract at Selhurst Park.

Last updated: 30 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Florent Malouda advocates for Chelsea to sign Marc Guehi.
• Guehi nearly transferred to Liverpool in the summer for £35 million.
• His contract situation at Crystal Palace makes him a sought-after player.
• Malouda emphasises the importance of a strategic approach to recruiting Guehi.
• Raheem Sterling's situation at Chelsea also needs addressing according to Malouda.

Guehi's Transfer Situation

Marc Guehi has become a focal point in the transfer discussions surrounding Chelsea as the January window approaches. The 23-year-old centre-back was on the brink of a move to Liverpool during the summer transfer window, with a £35 million deal reportedly agreed. However, the transfer fell through when Crystal Palace was unable to secure a replacement player, illustrating the complexities involved in high-stakes football transfers.

As Guehi enters the final year of his contract, he is likely to become even more appealing to clubs looking for defensive reinforcements. His performances for both Crystal Palace and the England national team showcase his capabilities as a top-tier defender, making him a valuable asset for any Premier League club.

Why Guehi Would Be a Smart Addition for Chelsea

Florent Malouda believes that Guehi would be a 'great addition' for Chelsea, particularly under the guidance of manager Enzo Maresca. Malouda's insights highlight several factors that make Guehi a desirable target:

• Proven Performance: Guehi has demonstrated his ability to perform consistently at a high level in the Premier League.
• International Experience: As a member of the England squad, Guehi brings valuable experience that can enhance Chelsea's defensive line.
• Competitive Edge: Signing Guehi could increase competition within Chelsea's defence, prompting better performances from all defenders.
• Familiarity with London: As a current player for Crystal Palace, Guehi would likely have no issues settling in at Chelsea, minimising the transitional challenges often faced by new signings.

Strategic Considerations for Chelsea

Malouda emphasised the importance of having a 'real plan' for Guehi should he join Chelsea. It is crucial for the club to approach a player of Guehi's calibre with a clear vision of how he would fit into the team. This includes addressing his potential role, the style of play, and how he can contribute to Chelsea's long-term goals.

Additionally, Malouda pointed out that Chelsea's performance in the Champions League could influence Guehi's decision to join the club. Should Chelsea qualify for the knockout stages, it would serve as a significant selling point for potential recruits, including Guehi. The allure of competing at the highest level can often sway a player's decision, making it essential for Chelsea to maintain a strong performance throughout the season.

Raheem Sterling's Position at Chelsea

In addition to discussing Guehi, Malouda also addressed the situation of Raheem Sterling at Chelsea. The winger has reportedly faced challenges in the club, including being isolated from the team and having his training conditions scrutinised. Malouda believes that the club needs to change its perspective on Sterling to get the best out of him.

According to Malouda, it is vital for Chelsea to foster an environment where Sterling feels valued and confident. He stated that "honest conversations" are necessary to help Sterling regain his form. The former player expressed that while Sterling's contract is substantial, it is crucial for the club to focus on player welfare and morale rather than solely on financial aspects.

What Lies Ahead for Chelsea

The upcoming January transfer window presents a pivotal opportunity for Chelsea to strengthen their squad. With Marc Guehi potentially on the table and the situation surrounding Raheem Sterling requiring attention, the club faces crucial decisions that could impact their performance for the remainder of the season.

As Chelsea navigates these challenges, it is essential for the club to adopt a strategic approach to player recruitment and management. The right moves could not only bolster their squad but also set the tone for future successes both domestically and in European competitions.

Conclusion

Florent Malouda's recommendations for Chelsea highlight the importance of strategic planning in player acquisitions and management. The potential signing of Marc Guehi could significantly enhance the team's defensive capabilities, while a more supportive approach to Raheem Sterling might unlock his full potential. As the January transfer window approaches, Chelsea must weigh these considerations carefully to improve their prospects for the season ahead.

FAQs

Who is Marc Guehi?

Marc Guehi is a professional footballer currently playing for Crystal Palace as a centre-back. He has also represented the England national team at various youth levels and made his senior debut in 2021.

Why did Guehi's transfer to Liverpool fall through?

The transfer to Liverpool was halted because Crystal Palace could not find a suitable replacement for Guehi before the summer transfer window closed.

What does Florent Malouda think about Guehi joining Chelsea?

Malouda believes Guehi would be a great addition to Chelsea, highlighting his talent and the importance of having a strategic plan to integrate him into the team.

What is the current situation with Raheem Sterling?

Raheem Sterling has faced challenges at Chelsea, including isolation from the team and scrutiny over his training conditions. Malouda believes the club should focus on rebuilding his confidence and support him as a key player.

How could Chelsea's Champions League performance affect player signings?

Performing well in the Champions League could make Chelsea a more attractive destination for players like Guehi, as it demonstrates the club's competitiveness at a high level.

As Chelsea prepares for the January transfer window, the decisions they make regarding players like Marc Guehi and Raheem Sterling could shape their future. The right moves could enhance their squad and bolster their chances in both domestic and European competitions. #ChelseaFC #MarcGuehi #FootballTransfers