Jorrel Hato playing. (Photo by Jack Thomas/Getty Images)

Mail Sport reveal one reason Chelsea didn’t sign new centre back, stance unlikely to change in January

Originally posted on Chelsea News | By Charlie Patrick | Last updated Oct 3, 2025 10:10 AM ET

The versatility of Jorrel Hato is one of the reasons Chelsea decided not to sign a new centre back according to reports.

Chelsea lost Levi Colwill to an ACL injury before the season started, and Maresca publicly stated he wanted a new centre back.

His wish wasn’t granted, and injuries and suspensions at the start of the season have left the Blues very short in that position.

Versatility of Jorrel Hato one reason Chelsea didn’t sign a centre back

Chelsea made six signings in the summer for the first team, with Hato the only defensive signing, and the Dutchman gives Maresca a much needed alternative to Marc Cucurella at left back.

Maresca stated Hato needed time after his first start against Brentford, but the 19-year-old put in a good performance at centre back in the defeat to Brighton.

Hato could once again find himself deployed in the heart of the Chelsea defence against Liverpool on Saturday afternoon.

Beniot Badiashile has returned to slightly ease Chelsea’s centre back woes, and Mail Sport have reported Hato’s versatility was one of the reasons the club didn’t sign a new centre back.

The report adds Chelsea felt there were no obvious upgrades in the market, with their stance unlikely to change in January unless they suffer serious injuries.

Benoit Badiashile return a boost for Maresca

Despite being without three centre backs the return of Badiashile is a welcome boost for Maresca, and the Frenchman will be looking to get his Chelsea career back on track.

Badiashile started against Benfica and put in an impressive performance, and he’s likely to start against Liverpool on Saturday.

Maresca has labelled Badiashile a very good player, and the Frenchman will be hoping to stay injury free as given the current centre back situation he has an opportunity to nail down a starting spot.

This article first appeared on Chelsea News and was syndicated with permission.

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