Chelsea interested in signing proven Premier League defender wanted Liverpool: Reports

Chelsea are reportedly interested in re-signing Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi, who has been linked with a move to Liverpool in the recent past.

Guehi, 24, has cemented himself as one of the best English defenders since leaving the Blues for £20 million in the summer of 2021. He has made 126 appearances across all competitions for the Eagles, scoring seven goals in the process.

Chelsea, on the other hand, currently have a number of centre-back options. They have Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana as their starting pair. Meanwhile, they also have Axel Disasi, Benoit Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Renato Veiga as rotational options.

Speaking to The Chelsea Chronicle, famed journalist Graeme Bailey stated that the Liverpool target is currently high up on the Blues' transfer wish list. He said:

"Guehi is someone who they like, he's high up on the list. Palace have got issues, a January deal is not something Guehi is pushing for. He'll have a year left on his deal next summer and will be a very attractive proposition for one of the top six. He's one to keep an eye on for sure. We know Chelsea like him and they do want to upgrade the options behind Fofana and Colwill."

Guehi, who has reportedly been identified as a successor to Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, is considered to be a vital starter for England now. He has featured in 22 games, including six UEFA Euro 2024 outings, for his national team.

Ex-Liverpool star Danny Murphy says Chelsea-linked ace is potential successor to Harry Kane

Speaking on BBC Match of the Day, former Liverpool man Danny Murphy stated that Chelsea transfer target Liam Delap could be the apt Harry Kane replacement for England. He said (h/t Tribal Football):

"I've seen him quite a lot this season and I'd probably go as far to say that for me, he's the obvious long-term successor to Kane. I think he's the best young English striker out there. I know he's got a bit to learn and wisdom comes with experience and game time in this league but he's got all the attributes to be a top international player."

Showering praise on the Ipswich Town summer signing, Murphy added:

"I just don't see a weakness for him. He's scored enough goals in a struggling side. He gets a lot of chances, he'll score more. He's just got that lovely balance between physical and technical, rarely you get both; he's a super talent."

Since joining Ipswich from Manchester City for an initial £15 million earlier this summer, Delap has scored six goals in 12 Premier League appearances.

Last campaign, Delap produced eight goals and two assists in 31 EFL Championship matches while on loan at Hull City from Manchester City.