Chelsea is intensifying its efforts to sign a right-back in the January transfer window following the news that captain Reece James will undergo knee surgery, sidelining him until 2027. James has faced multiple injury setbacks in his career, prompting both Xabi Alonso and previous manager Enzo Maresca to experiment with playing him in midfield to lessen physical strain.
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On Thursday, Chelsea announced that James would require surgery on what they described as a ‘minor knee injury,’ which is expected to keep him out for three months. This development will leave Alonso without one of his key players during the critical part of the season.
The club is also in the market for a midfielder after selling Enzo Fernandez on deadline day without securing a replacement. As part of their search, Chelsea has reportedly identified Benfica’s 18-year-old Daniel Banjaqui as a ‘leading target,’ according to TEAMtalk. Banjaqui, who is gradually establishing himself in Benfica’s first team, has made three appearances this season and possesses a release clause estimated at €45 million. Several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Liverpool, and Tottenham, are also monitoring his progress, adding to Chelsea's competition.
Despite James' injury, Chelsea has some depth at right-back, featuring Malo Gusto and €50 million summer signing Marco Palestra. However, the club has a history of pursuing young talent, which means a move for Banjaqui remains possible. Meanwhile, Chelsea is expected to prioritize strengthening their midfield, with Alex Scott emerging as a primary target, especially following Bournemouth's indication that he may be available.
Additionally, Chelsea could revisit a potential deal for Lamine Camara after Monaco withdrew from negotiations on deadline day. Alonso has expressed confidence that James’ absence will not significantly alter the club's transfer strategy. He remarked, "I don’t think so because we expect for that time that he’s back - some weeks before, some weeks [gestures other side] so let’s see, it’s not exact the timeline with him, so it doesn’t affect [transfer plans]." Alonso acknowledged the disappointment surrounding James' injury but noted that the surgery was successful.