Chelsea Eye Replacement for Levi Colwill? Here Are 5 Centre-Backs Under €50m Who Could Be Options

Chelsea are enjoying a sweet summer both in the transfer market and on the pitch, having lifted the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. But the celebrations have been dampened by a major blow — one of Enzo Maresca’s key pillars, Levi Colwill, has suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in training.

The 23-year-old defender is expected to be sidelined for around nine months, meaning he will miss most of the 2025/26 Premier League season. His absence is a huge setback for the Blues, especially given that last season he was the centre-back with the most minutes played in Maresca’s squad.

Colwill’s Profile and Chelsea’s Defensive Situation

Colwill has been one of Maresca’s most important players, not only solid defensively but also key in building play from the back.

Despite already signing €44.2 million man Jorrel Hato and having Benoît Badiashile in the squad, Maresca admits Chelsea still need reinforcements in the position.
“This is a priority for me, yes, because Levi is a fantastic player. What we achieved last season was also thanks to him. I like him a lot, I’ll miss him. We’re looking for another solution,” Maresca told Channel 5.

What Kind of Defender Are Chelsea Looking For?

In today’s market, quality centre-backs are expensive commodities. Maresca has a clear profile in mind: a player comfortable in possession and capable of starting attacks from deep.

However, Chelsea have already spent around €280 million this summer, meaning they’ll need to be more budget-conscious when finding Colwill’s replacement. Based on Transfermarkt valuations, here are five potential centre-back targets under €50 million.

5 Potential Centre-Back Targets for Chelsea (Under €50m)

1. Gonçalo Inácio (Sporting CP) – €45m

   A left-footed Portuguese defender known for his calmness under pressure and clean distribution. Perfect for Maresca’s build-from-the-back style. Sporting are reluctant to sell, but his release clause is within Chelsea’s reach.

2. Piero Hincapié (Bayer Leverkusen) – €40m

   The Ecuador international can play both centre-back and left-back. At just 23, he offers pace, aggression, and versatility. His long contract may complicate things, but Leverkusen are open to selling for the right price.

3. Edmond Tapsoba (Bayer Leverkusen) – €35m

   Standing at 1.94m, Tapsoba combines physical dominance with the ability to carry the ball forward. An intriguing option if Chelsea want more aerial power.

4. Jarrad Branthwaite (Everton) – €45m

   One of last season’s standout performers for Everton. Strong in the air, disciplined, and composed in defence. Chelsea could capitalise on Everton’s financial struggles to get him below market value, though Manchester United are also keen.

5. Giorgio Scalvini (Atalanta) – €50m

   One of Serie A’s brightest young defenders. At 21, Scalvini is already mature in his reading of the game and can also operate as a defensive midfielder when needed.

Bottom Line: Chelsea Need to Act Fast

With Levi Colwill out for most of the season, Chelsea must strengthen their backline quickly. Of the five, Gonçalo Inácio and Jarrad Branthwaite seem the most realistic fits in terms of age, style, and Maresca’s tactical approach.

However, the final decision will hinge on the club’s financial position after a €280 million summer outlay. If they want to remain competitive in both the Premier League and Champions League, time is not on their side.