Chelsea fans could be waving goodbye to another familiar face as Atletico Madrid are reportedly eyeing out-of-favor defender Ben Chilwell for a potential January move.
With Diego Simeone’s side looking to bolster their defense, Chilwell has emerged as a top target. Atletico have had a solid start to their La Liga campaign, going unbeaten in eight matches, though they’ve drawn four.
However, their recent 4-0 thrashing at the hands of Benfica in the Champions League highlighted a need for more defensive depth.
Samuel Lino, an attack-minded winger, was used as a left wing-back but struggled to contain Benfica’s attackers, leaving Simeone considering reinforcements.
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Simeone keen on Chelsea's Chilwell swoop
According to transfer journalist Ekrem Konur, Simeone has turned his attention to Ben Chilwell, a player who has struggled to fit into new Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca’s system.
Despite the Blues keeping their options open for a potential Chilwell departure over the summer, no deal materialized, leaving the 27-year-old left-back stuck on the fringes of the squad.
Chilwell did get some game time recently in an EFL Cup match, but it’s clear he’s no longer a key figure at Stamford Bridge. Atletico Madrid, who have previously done business with Chelsea to secure Conor Gallagher, are reportedly considering a similar approach for Chilwell.
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Loan deal or permanent move?
With Atletico’s budget already stretched after a busy summer, they are likely to explore a loan deal for Chilwell in January.
Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly might be willing to negotiate, especially if no club steps forward with a bid exceeding £20 million.
For Chelsea fans, the big question remains: Is it time to cut ties with Chilwell, or does he still have something to offer? Either way, it seems his days in blue could be numbered.
