Enzo Maresca has been advised to offload two Chelsea defenders who cost the club a staggering £70 million. The Italian, recently appointed as Chelsea’s new manager to replace Mauricio Pochettino, has signed a five-year contract with an option for an additional season at Stamford Bridge. Although Maresca officially starts next month, he is already considering changes to the squad.
Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel believes that Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi should be sold. On his podcast, Mikel stated, “Thiago Silva is leaving, we need a couple of centre-halves. I don’t think Benoit Badiashile is the guy for Chelsea, no. [Axel] Disasi, no. They’re still young players, they will develop. We need proven, two top centre-backs who will come in there and stabilize that back four.”
Both French defenders, Disasi and Badiashile, were signed for a combined fee of £70 million. Badiashile joined from Monaco last summer for £38 million and made 44 appearances in his debut season. Disasi, who also came from Monaco two seasons ago, has had limited opportunities, featuring in just 33 matches since his arrival. Disasi is under contract until 2029, while Badiashile has six years remaining on his deal.
Despite the potential departures, Chelsea still has several center-back options, including Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, and youngster Alfie Gilchrist. Nevertheless, the club is reportedly interested in adding more defenders, having attempted to hijack Newcastle’s move for Fulham star Tosin Adarabioyo, who has confirmed his exit from Craven Cottage.