Chelsea’s January transfer window shock has left football fans and insiders talking.
Aaron Anselmino, the 20-year-old centre back currently on loan at Borussia Dortmund, was seen in tears as he said goodbye to his teammates, after Chelsea triggered a clause to recall him mid-season.
What many are calling the “most unusual” transfer of January has sparked fury in Germany and sent ripples through both clubs.
Emotional Farewell in Germany
Anselmino’s departure was far from a quiet exit.
A video shared on X shows the young Argentine visibly emotional, hugging teammates and staff individually while Dortmund’s squad applauded his farewell.
The clip, captioned “an emotional farewell,” ends with Anselmino posing for a group photo, a bittersweet memento of his short but memorable time in Germany.
Although Chelsea acted within their contractual rights, the recall clearly caught Dortmund off guard.
Sources from BILD describe the club’s leadership as “astonished” and “furious” over the timing, which leaves them scrambling for reinforcements just days before the January transfer window closes.
Dortmund Left Scrambling
The timing of Chelsea’s move has created headaches for Dortmund’s management.
With only a week left until February 2, director of football Sebastian Kehl and manager Niko Kovac now face the urgent task of finding a replacement or reassessing their options for the summer.
Compounding the frustration, Chelsea gave no prior notice of their intent to recall Anselmino, a move Dortmund describe as highly disruptive.
Interestingly, Dortmund had been hopeful of signing Anselmino permanently, even though no such clause existed in the original loan deal.
The defender made a strong impression in his 10 appearances, earning praise from fans and staff alike.
Praise from Dortmund Manager Niko Kovac
Kovac has been full of praise for Anselmino, describing him as a reliable and talented defender.
“He really does very well when he plays,” Kovac said last month.
“He had a bit of bad luck, but you can rely on him from the first minute to the last. A great lad, but also a great defender.”
Anselmino’s debut against Union Berlin in September was especially notable, with Kovac calling it “world class.”
Despite his promising performances, Chelsea’s intervention means Dortmund must now adjust quickly, mid-season.
Chelsea’s Centre Back Options Strengthened
Back in England, Anselmino joins a Chelsea squad eager to strengthen their defensive options.
He has previously made just one appearance for the Blues, as a substitute during the Club World Cup, but now becomes part of Liam Rosenior’s squad as they push for top-four Premier League positioning while chasing Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup success.
Chelsea’s centre back roster now includes Anselmino alongside Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah, Wesley Fofana, and Jorrel Hato.
Young Mamadou Sarr is out on loan with a similar recall option, while Levi Colwill remains sidelined due to a long-term injury.
Youth Prospects Stay Put
Chelsea also view 19-year-old Josh Acheampong as “impossible” to sell this month.
Though primarily a centre back, he has often been deployed at right back.
Despite interest from Crystal Palace and Bayern Munich, Chelsea plan to retain him, adding further depth to their defensive options.
What’s Next for Anselmino and Chelsea?
Now reunited with the Blues, Anselmino faces the challenge of integrating quickly into a competitive squad.
For Dortmund, the focus shifts to finding a temporary solution before the transfer window closes.
Meanwhile, Chelsea hope that this surprising January recall gives them the defensive edge they need across multiple competitions.
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