Chelsea hold firm on £35m valuation for Trevoh Chalobah as Como bid rejected

Chelsea have formally rejected a third approach from Serie A club Como for defender Trevoh Chalobah, maintaining a rigid valuation of £35 million. The figure comprises a £30 million base fee with £5 million in potential add-ons, a threshold the club shows no sign of lowering despite sustained interest from the Italian side.

The pursuit has been driven by Como head coach Cesc Fabregas, who leverages his previous connection with the player and the club. Fabregas and Chalobah shared a dressing room at Chelsea, although they did not play together at Stamford Bridge. This personal link has facilitated a strategy at Como that includes leveraging former Chelsea ties, evidenced by the permanent signing of Alvaro Morata following a loan spell.

Chalobah’s market position is strengthened by his performance metrics and contract security. The 27-year-old made 47 appearances for Chelsea in the 2025/26 season, scoring two goals, and recently made his England debut in a World Cup third-place play-off victory over France. He remains under contract for two years, with an option to extend for a further 12 months, removing any pressure for a distressed sale.

Chelsea’s stance is further informed by structural changes within the squad. The club is closing in on a deal for Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix, expected to cost north of £55 million. The impending arrival of Lacroix, combined with reports that new manager Xabi Alonso does not view Chalobah as part of his future plans, suggests the club is prioritising a different defensive profile.

Como are preparing for their first-ever Champions League campaign following a fourth-place finish in Serie A. While Chalobah offers top-level experience and recent form, the onus now lies with the Italian club to meet Chelsea’s valuation if they wish to proceed. Chelsea remains open to a sale but insists on terms that reflect the player’s value and the club’s strategic direction.