Chelsea have reportedly made enquiries about Manchester City full-back Rico Lewis as they continue to explore options to reinforce their defence before the transfer window closes. The 19-year-old has drawn serious interest from Stamford Bridge, with the club impressed by his development under Pep Guardiola.
Despite already having Reece James, Malo Gusto and Josh Acheampong as right-back options, the Blues are said to be seriously considering a bid.
Chelsea enquire about Manchester City’s Rico Lewis
Lewis has emerged as one of City’s most promising academy graduates, offering tactical intelligence, technical quality, and positional versatility. He has operated not only at full-back but also in midfield, providing Guardiola with a flexible option in multiple systems. With Levi Colwill sidelined long-term, Enzo Maresca is actively reassessing his defensive options and sees Lewis as a player who could add quality and depth.
According to CaughtOffside, Chelsea are not alone in their interest, with Nottingham Forest also monitoring the teenager’s situation. However, it remains unclear whether Manchester City are willing to part with Lewis, especially given their experience with Cole Palmer. The England international has flourished since leaving the Etihad for Stamford Bridge last summer, becoming a central figure in Chelsea’s project under Maresca’s predecessor and continuing to impress under the new manager.
Enzo Maresca focused on long-term squad building at Chelsea
That previous deal may now give City pause, particularly as Lewis is expected to play a bigger role at the Etihad this season. Still, Chelsea’s strategy of targeting elite young talent from rival clubs shows no signs of slowing down. The club is keen to build a squad for the long term, and Lewis fits the profile: young, tactically adaptable, and Premier League-proven.
From Chelsea’s perspective, the need for defensive reinforcements remains urgent. Injuries to Colwill, Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile and Tosin Adarabioyo have exposed the squad’s lack of depth at centre-back, making that position a more pressing concern than full-back. However, if an opportunity arises to sign Lewis, the club may be tempted to act, especially if they view him as a multi-role option rather than just a traditional right-back.
Whether a formal bid will materialise remains to be seen, but the interest is clear. As Chelsea navigate the final stretch of the transfer window, Rico Lewis has become a name worth watching—both for what he offers now and what he could become.
