The Chelsea manager will now have to look elsewhere for reinforcements. Their only senior centre-backs are Koulibaly, Trevoh Chalobah and 37-year-old Thiago Silva. Cesar Azpilicueta, who has been closely linked with his move to Barça, can also play in the position.
Koulibaly and Raheem Sterling are Chelsea’s only arrivals this summer for a combined fee of around £80m. New chairman Todd Boehly has promised big-name additions after buying the club from Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich.
The Blues have been linked with a move for Paris Saint Germain defender Presnel Kimpembe and could incredibly hijack Manchester United’s move for Frenkie de Jong. The Red Devils have been chasing De Jong all summer, but the Dutchman does not appear to favor a move to Old Trafford.