Latest developments
- Chelsea want to sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton & Hove Albion.
- The Blues have asked the Seagulls for their asking price.
- They have also signed Robert Sanchez and Moises Caicedo from Brighton.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2/5): Chelsea's favourites
Chelsea are exploring the possibility of signing Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, with a move before the deadline on 3rd February not out of the question.
This comes from teamtalk.com, not the best source when it comes to insider knowledge, but Chelsea's recent history of signing Seagulls makes this somewhat plausible.
Value (2.5/5): January deal will cost
The 21-year-old was signed 18 months ago as a replacement for Moises Caicedo, who left for Chelsea for over £100 million.
Ironically, they now want Baleba after Caicedo has underwhelmed, and though he is likely to cost as much, Brighton will expect something much higher than his £29.25 million market valuation.
Suitability (4/5): Can do a job at the top level
The Cameroon international has been a consistent performer for Brighton since arriving at the start of last season, notching three goals and two assists from defensive midfield.
His ability to break up the play and turn defence into attack is even more impressive, and would be an asset to any team fighting for UEFA Champions League qualification.
Upgrade? (3/5): Replacing Caicedo again
Caicedo's ridiculous fee is always held against him and he has often performed better than he is given credit for.
That said, he and Chelsea's other defensive-midfielder, Romeo Lavia, have not shown as much consistency as Baleba, who would be expected to take a starting berth at Stamford Bridge.
Logic (2/5): Learn from others mistakes?
Neither Caicedo's nor Robert Sanchez's moves from the Amex to the Bridge could be described as great successes, and that might be enough to put Baleba off.
For Chelsea, they risk overspending once again on a Seagulls star, and should perhaps wait until the summer to weigh up this deal.
Whisper+ verdict: 13.5/25
“If in doubt, buy from Brighton” has been Chelsea's motto of late, but even they might hold off on this one.
