Chelsea join race to sign “fantastic” international defender with 4 G/A this season

Colombia's Luis Diaz celebrates scoring their first goal with Richard Rios, Daniel Munoz and James Rodriguez. (REUTERS/Agustin Marcarian)

Chelsea’s 2025/26 campaign continues to gain traction under Enzo Maresca.

A commanding 3-0 win over Wolves at the weekend — following a 4-3 EFL Cup victory against the same side — has lifted the Blues to third in the Premier League table.

Malo Gusto opened his account for the club, while João Pedro and Pedro Neto also got on the scoresheet in what was one of Chelsea’s most complete performances of the season.

With only a quarter of the campaign gone, the Blues are firmly in contention for a top-four finish.

But Chelsea rarely rest on their laurels, and with the January transfer window approaching, the club are already eyeing reinforcements — particularly at full-back.

According to reports from Spain, Chelsea have entered the chase for Crystal Palace right-back Daniel Munoz following his impressive form at Selhurst Park.

The Colombia international has contributed two goals and two assists so far, building on a strong 2024/25 campaign that saw him score six times and provide eight assists across all competitions. Palace boss Oliver Glasner described him as “fantastic,” highlighting the impact he has had for the Eagles.

However, Chelsea face stiff competition. Barcelona are also monitoring Munoz, hoping to lure him to La Liga and fulfill a move the Belgian previously called a “dream” during his time at Genk.

“For me, this will be a great stepping stone; this league can offer me many positive opportunities to improve,” Munoz said. “And why not think and visualise that I could reach a league like the Premier League or La Liga, because my dream is to play for Barcelona.”

Chelsea will need to act decisively if they want to secure a top target ahead of the winter window, as other European heavyweights are circling.

Barnaby Lane is a highly experienced sports writer who has written for The Times, FourFourTwo Magazine, Sports Illustrated, TalkSPORT, and Business Insider.

Over the years, he's had the pleasure of interviewing some of the biggest names in world sport, including Usain Bolt, Rafael Nadal, Christian Pulisic, and more.