Como's Defensive Reinforcement Plans Hit a Snag
Newly promoted Como are wasting no time in their bid to build a Serie A-ready squad, but their pursuit of Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah has hit a financial wall. The 25-year-old Englishman was a top target to shore up the backline, yet the Blues’ asking price has forced the Lombardy club to look elsewhere.
According to Sportitalia transfer pundit Alfredo Pedullà, Como have now turned their attention to Galatasaray centre-back Davinson Sanchez, requesting information on the Colombian’s availability. The move signals a pragmatic shift in strategy as the club adapts to the realities of the summer market.
Why Como Are in the Market for a Centre-Back
Como’s stunning promotion from Serie B means a significant step up in quality is required across the pitch. The defensive department is a clear priority, with the team conceding 40 goals in 38 league games last season – a respectable tally for the second tier, but one that will be severely tested against Italy’s elite.
Head coach Cesc Fàbregas is keen to implement a proactive style of play, and a ball-playing centre-back with physical presence is essential. Both Chalobah and Sanchez fit that profile, but the difference in cost has driven the decision-making.
The Chalobah Roadblock
Chelsea’s willingness to offload Trevoh Chalobah is no secret. The academy graduate spent the second half of last season on loan at Nottingham Forest, and with the Blues’ bloated squad, a permanent exit was always on the cards. However, the West London club’s valuation – believed to be in excess of €25 million – has proven prohibitive for Como, whose summer budget must be spread across multiple positions.
“Como asked for information on Chalobah, but the figures are too high,” Pedullà reported. “Now they have moved to Davinson Sanchez, who could leave Galatasaray at a more accessible price.”
The Italian side are not alone in walking away from a deal; several Premier League clubs have also balked at Chelsea’s demands for the one-cap England international.
Davinson Sanchez: A More Affordable Alternative
Davinson Sanchez, 29, would bring a wealth of experience to the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia. The Colombian spent five seasons at Tottenham Hotspur before joining Galatasaray in 2023 for a fee of around €9.5 million. He quickly established himself as a key figure in Istanbul, helping the club win the Süper Lig title in his first season and regularly featuring in European competition.
Galatasaray are open to selling at the right price, with Sanchez’s current market value estimated at €12–15 million. While still a significant outlay, it is almost half of what Chelsea demand for Chalobah, making the deal far more palatable for Como’s ownership group.
What Would Sanchez Bring?
The 1.87m defender is known for his physicality, aerial prowess, and recovery pace. These attributes would suit Fàbregas’ desire to play a high defensive line. Sanchez is also comfortable in possession, a quality increasingly prized in modern Serie A. His experience in the Premier League and Champions League would add leadership to a relatively young Como squad.
There are, however, questions about consistency. Sanchez endured difficult spells in North London, where lapses in concentration occasionally proved costly. Yet, the slower tempo of Serie A compared to the Premier League could play to his strengths, as many defenders have found after making a similar switch.
Key Takeaways
- Como’s ambitious summer plans include signing a proven centre-back to strengthen their defence for the Serie A campaign.
- Financial reality bites: Chelsea’s €25m+ valuation of Trevoh Chalobah was too high, prompting a change of target.
- Davinson Sanchez emerges as a viable option, with Galatasaray willing to negotiate at a lower fee.
- Sanchez’s physical and technical profile fits the bill, but his consistency will be under scrutiny.
- The deal hinges on Galatasaray’s demands, but early contacts suggest a transfer is possible.
Quick Facts
Player: Davinson Sanchez
Current club: Galatasaray
Age: 29
Nationality: Colombian
Previous club: Tottenham Hotspur (2018–2023)
Estimated transfer fee: €12–15 million
Como’s original target: Trevoh Chalobah (Chelsea, fee deemed too high)
