Chelsea’s search for a new centre-back has taken another turn after the club recalled teenage defender Ishe Samuels-Smith from his loan spell, leaving his temporary club angry as the Blues continue to struggle to complete a January move for Jeremy Jacquet.
The 18-year-old had been spending the season on loan at Walsall, but Chelsea have now brought him back to Stamford Bridge. The decision has not gone down well with Walsall, who are understood to be unhappy at losing the defender mid-season.
The recall comes at a time when Chelsea are still working on strengthening at centre-back this month, with their pursuit of Rennes youngster Jacquet proving difficult to finalise. The London club have been exploring defensive options during the window, but a deal for Jacquet has not yet been completed.
While Chelsea continue to pursue reinforcements, the Samuels-Smith recall adds another layer to their January plans, as Walsall are left frustrated by the sudden end to the loan agreement.
