Transfer News: Chelsea join the race for 24-year-old La Liga defender

Transfer News: Chelsea linked with a move for Villarreal defender Pau Torres

According to transfer news from 90min (h/t football.london), Chelsea have ‘joined the race’ to sign Villarreal defender, Pau Torres.

The report claims that the Blues are on the lookout for new defenders and could sign two players in that position by the summer of 2022. One of them could well be the 24-year-old Spain international, Torres.

The Spaniard has made quite an impression for himself in the heart of the Yellow Submarines’ defence. His defensive acumen and abilities have also seen him earn 14 caps for the Spanish national team.

Chelsea have shown interest in Pau Torres of Villarreal.
Chelsea have shown interest in Pau Torres of Villarreal. (imago Images)

Chelsea are not short of options at the back. With Antonio Rudiger, Thiago Silva, Cesar Azpilicueta, Andreas Christensen and now Trevoh Chalobah, Thomas Tuchel is well stocked in the defensive department for this season.

Torres to Stamford Bridge

But that bracket could be shortened by next summer. Rudiger is in the final year of his contract at Stamford Bridge and could become a free agent by next summer, while Silva is already 37 years old.

Chelsea also saw a mass exodus of talented young defenders this summer. Marc Guehi, Kurt Zouma, and Fikayo Tomori all departed the club on a permanent basis.

Antonio Rudiger played a key role in Chelsea's Champions League triumph (imago Images)
Antonio Rudiger played a key role in Chelsea’s Champions League triumph (imago Images)

Chalobah has been a revelation in defence but with the German manager playing three centre-backs in his set-up on a regular basis, more depth in that area would always be welcome.

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It remains to be seen if Chelsea translate their interest into a formal offer for Torres. The Villarreal defender is certainly talented and is at the level required to make it into the Chelsea first-team.