By Kevin Phillips

21st May, 2022 | 2:35pm

Chelsea 'talking £200m' in new signings after confirmed news - pundit

Kevin Phillips has claimed Chelsea could be forced to pay £200million to rebuild their defence this summer with four “quality” stars all set to depart.

The former Sunderland striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested Thomas Tuchel is facing a “big headache” as he tries to bed in any acquisitions during the off-season.

Antonio Rudiger has confirmed via The Players Tribune (20 May) that he will depart Chelsea when his contract expires next month – with Real Madrid his likely destination.

Marcos Alonso, Cesar Azpilicueta, and Andreas Christensen have all been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona amid a backdrop of takeover uncertainty at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea have all but secured a third place finish in the Premier League and will play Champions League football next season.

However, Phillips suggested the Blues could struggle to attract “the top players” to replace their outgoing stars this summer.

“You’re losing four quality players there,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.

“To replace them, you’re talking £200million. That’s if you’re really serious about challenging for titles.

“That’s the foundation of any top side, a solid defensive unit. To lose virtually the whole defence is going to cost money and time this summer.

“Who is out there? Who is available? They could really struggle to get the top players through the door.

“It’ll be a big headache for Thomas Tuchel. Not only does he have to identify the right players. He also has to gel them together in time for the new season.”

37-year-old Thiago Silva’s contract is also set to expire in June 2023.

Todd Boehly is still yet to complete his £4.25billion takeover of Chelsea despite agreeing terms earlier this month.

In other news, medical expert issues “dramatic” Ben Chilwell claim after Cobham training ground reveal.