Levi Colwill’s devastating knee injury, which could sideline him for the entire 2025–26 season, has left a gaping hole in Chelsea’s defensive line. While Enzo Maresca, the Blues’ tactician, has openly stressed the need for a new centre-back to fill the void, some Chelsea fans remain skeptical, pointing to the recent arrival of Ajax’s prodigy Jorrel Hato and the meteoric rise of young star Josh Acheampong. Yet, Maresca’s concerns were evident in Chelsea’s lackluster draw against a resolute Crystal Palace on the opening weekend, where Colwill’s absence exposed their struggles to break down a compact defense.
“We know how vital Levi was last season for how we play,” Maresca admitted before the stalemate at Stamford Bridge. Colwill’s knack for threading progressive passes from deep was sorely missed, and Maresca is determined to find a replacement who can replicate that vision and composure. While the transfer window’s final weeks won’t see Chelsea panic, the club has reportedly already secured deals for four elite defenders to bolster their backline and keep their ambitions alive. Here’s a look at the “steel walls” poised to step into Colwill’s shoes.
Piero Hincapié: The Dynamic Ecuadorian
Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapié is a name that’s been buzzing in transfer circles, with Tottenham Hotspur also vying for his signature. The 23-year-old Ecuadorian international brings a unique blend of aggression and forward-thinking play, making him an ideal fit for Maresca’s system. Whether deployed in a back three or as a left-back in a four-man defense, Hincapié’s versatility shines. His 1.65 progressive carries per 90 minutes (95th percentile among centre-backs in Europe’s top-five leagues, per FBRef) and 4.81 progressive passes per 90 (84th percentile) highlight his ability to drive the ball forward with purpose.
Maresca’s shift toward encouraging his defenders to carry the ball—evidenced by Acheampong’s league-high 33 carries in Gameweek One—makes Hincapié a dream addition. Leverkusen, however, won’t let their star go cheap, and Chelsea’s pursuit of the dynamic defender signals their intent to adapt and evolve their defensive approach.
Castello Lukeba: The French Maestro
RB Leipzig’s Castello Lukeba has already caught the eye of Premier League giants, including Manchester City, and it’s easy to see why. The 21-year-old Frenchman combines physical prowess with cultured ball-playing ability, making him a near-perfect replacement for Colwill. While his passing may not be as incisive as the Englishman’s, Lukeba’s elegance when carrying the ball forward sets him apart. His willingness to venture into advanced areas and contribute in the final third adds a maverick flair to Chelsea’s backline.
Lukeba’s speed and agility make him a natural fit for an aggressive, high-pressing system, though his price tag could force Chelsea to prioritize defense over attacking targets. His arrival would signal a bold statement of intent, bringing a defender who could redefine Maresca’s tactical vision.
Giorgio Scalvini: Italy’s Resilient Talent
Once hailed as the next big thing in Italian football, Atalanta’s Giorgio Scalvini has endured a torrid 18 months with injuries, including an ACL tear and shoulder surgery. Yet, at just 21, the versatile defender remains a tantalizing prospect. Capable of playing as a centre-back, in a back three, or even stepping into midfield, Scalvini’s adaptability is a major draw. His 5+ progressive passes per 90 in Serie A, combined with his robust defensive fundamentals, make him a compelling option.
While Scalvini’s recent injuries may temper expectations, his potential to become one of the world’s elite defenders remains undeniable. Chelsea’s reported deal for the Italian could be a masterstroke, offering him the platform to rediscover his form and prove his worth in the Premier League.
Jan Paul van Hecke: Brighton’s Passing Prodigy
Chelsea’s close relationship with Brighton and Hove Albion has been a fruitful pipeline in recent years, and Jan Paul van Hecke could be the next Seagull to soar at Stamford Bridge. The Dutch centre-back is a passing maestro, ranking in the top 2% of Europe’s centre-backs with 7.03 progressive passes per 90 over the past year. His Gameweek One performance against Fulham—where he recorded 13 line-breaking passes and 44 forward passes—underscored his ability to dictate play from the back.
While van Hecke typically operates on the right side, Maresca’s willingness to tweak his in-possession structure could see the 24-year-old adapt to Colwill’s left-sided role. His signing would be a pragmatic yet exciting move, capitalizing on Chelsea’s strong ties with Brighton to secure a player tailor-made for their system.
With Hato already in the fold and Acheampong blossoming, Chelsea’s reported acquisitions of Hincapié, Lukeba, Scalvini, and van Hecke demonstrate their ambition to not only replace Colwill but elevate their defense to new heights. Each player brings a unique skill set, from Hincapié’s dynamism to Lukeba’s flair, Scalvini’s versatility, and van Hecke’s passing precision. As Maresca molds his squad, these “steel walls” could fortify Chelsea’s backline and propel them toward a successful 2025–26 campaign.