Chelsea could make further changes to their defensive department during the January transfer window, with Pep Chavarria’s position potentially coming under pressure amid reported interest in Brentford left-back El Hadji Malick Diouf.

According to a report by Football London on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, Chelsea and Liverpool have opened discussions over a possible transfer for the Senegal international, who joined Brentford from West Ham United for £40 million last summer.

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso invested significantly in strengthening his defence during the previous transfer window, bringing in Emi Martinez, Chavarria, Marco Palestra and Maxence Lacroix. However, injuries to Martinez and Lacroix have affected his plans and limited his defensive options.

Chavarria has also found it difficult to establish himself as the undisputed first-choice left-back, with the Spaniard sharing responsibilities in the position with Jorrel Hato.

The situation became more interesting when Alonso selected Palestra, a naturally right-footed defender, at left-back during Chelsea’s recent encounter against Manchester United, raising further questions about his preferred options in that position.

Diouf, who is 21, has attracted attention following his impressive performances, with his pace, physical strength and attacking ability making him an attractive option for clubs looking to strengthen their defence.

His statistics from the 2025-26 campaign show that he recorded more clearances, aerial duels won and successful crosses per 90 minutes than Chavarria.

However, the Chelsea defender performed better in other defensive areas, registering more tackles and recoveries per 90 minutes.

Brentford are unlikely to be keen on losing Diouf so soon after securing his services, although a substantial offer could potentially change their position.

Chelsea’s interest in another left-back suggests that Alonso is keen to increase competition in the position despite the club’s considerable investment in defensive reinforcements during the summer.

For Chavarria, the reported interest in Diouf could create additional pressure as he attempts to secure a regular starting position and convince Alonso that he deserves to remain an important part of Chelsea’s long-term defensive plans.