Even amid all the criticism and chaos, one thing’s for certain—Chelsea have been undeniably entertaining in the transfer market under the Clearlake Capital-Todd Boehly regime. Since taking over in May 2022, the club has embarked on one of the most aggressive squad overhauls in Premier League history, prioritising high-potential youth with long contracts and lofty expectations.
Nowhere is that more evident than in defence.
As Chelsea prepare to welcome 19-year-old Ajax sensation Jorrel Hato in a deal worth €40 million, the numbers speak for themselves. If Hato’s move is finalised, Chelsea will have spent an eye-watering €395.2 million (£347.1m) on defenders alone since the 2022/23 season.
Chelsea’s Defensive Signings Since 2022 (via Transfermarkt)
| Season | Player | Club Signed From | Transfer Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25/26 | Jorrel Hato | Ajax | €40m |
| 25/26 | Mamadou Sarr | Strasbourg | €14m |
| 24/25 | Aaron Anselmino | Boca Juniors | €16.5m |
| 24/25 | Renato Veiga | FC Basel | €14m |
| 24/25 | Caleb Wiley | Atlanta United | €10.1m |
| 23/24 | Axel Disasi | Monaco | €45m |
| 22/23 | Wesley Fofana | Leicester City | €80.4m |
| 22/23 | Marc Cucurella | Brighton | €65.3m |
| 22/23 | Kalidou Koulibaly | Napoli | €41.9m |
| 22/23 | Benoit Badiashile | Monaco | €38m |
| 22/23 | Malo Gusto | Lyon | €30m |
It’s an astonishing amount—and a clear sign of Chelsea’s mission to secure a generational backline. However, with a number of those signings already sidelined, sold, or struggling for fitness, has the spending translated to stability?
Mixed Results, But Depth at Last?
Some of these signings, like Wesley Fofana, have seen their progress derailed by serious injuries. Others—Marc Cucurella, Benoit Badiashile, and Kalidou Koulibaly—have experienced form issues, or have already moved on. But this summer’s activity shows Chelsea are doubling down on their youthful rebuild, with Jorrel Hato, Mamadou Sarr, Aaron Anselmino, and Caleb Wiley forming a new generation of defensive options.
The aim appears to be a long-term, versatile unit—players who can evolve with the club over several seasons. Hato, in particular, is considered one of the most mature teenage centre-backs in Europe and had serious interest from Real Madrid before choosing Chelsea. At 19, he’s already captained Ajax and is seen as someone who can immediately compete for minutes.
Chelsea’s 2025/26 Defensive Options
Heading into the new season, Enzo Maresca has a wealth of defensive choices at his disposal:
Full-Backs:
- Marc Cucurella
- Reece James
- Malo Gusto
- Jorrel Hato (also capable centrally)
Centre-Backs:
- Levi Colwill
- Tosin Adarabioyo
- Wesley Fofana
- Benoit Badiashile
- Trevoh Chalobah
It’s an enviable lineup when fit, combining technical ability, physical strength, and youth-driven potential. Chelsea may finally have the depth and flexibility they’ve craved, especially with a busy season ahead that includes domestic and European campaigns.
What Next for Josh Acheampong?
One of the next decisions Chelsea face is whether to loan or retain 19-year-old defender Josh Acheampong. The academy graduate is regarded as highly versatile, able to operate across the backline, and is attracting attention from Championship and European clubs.
With Hato and other young defenders incoming, it may make sense to send Acheampong out on loan to gain regular senior minutes. But Maresca may still want to keep him around as insurance for cup competitions and rotational depth.
Is It Time to Hit Pause?
Reports suggest Chelsea could still target another centre-back before the window closes—but there’s a strong argument for slamming the brakes. With nearly €400m already spent on defenders, and promising names already on the books, further additions could lead to unnecessary congestion—and even more players left sidelined.
That said, if injuries again become an issue (as they did in previous seasons), the club may look wise for erring on the side of abundance.
Final Word
Chelsea’s spending spree has often raised eyebrows, but their commitment to youth, depth, and long-term value is slowly taking shape—particularly at the back. The arrival of Jorrel Hato could mark the final major piece of a defensive puzzle three years in the making.
Whether it finally delivers the consistency and solidity Chelsea fans crave is now up to Enzo Maresca and his tactical system. But one thing is certain: Stamford Bridge won’t be short on entertainment anytime soon.
