Chelsea have initiated a major squad overhaul under incoming manager Xabi Alonso, with the club planning to raise approximately £230 million through player sales this summer. The Blues have already submitted a bid for Granit Xhaka, identified targets Pep Chavarria and Maxence Lacroix, and are prepared to sell several first-team players including Malo Gusto, Trevoh Chalobah, and Enzo Fernandez.
Xhaka Bid Rejected by Sunderland
Chelsea submitted an £8 million bid for Granit Xhaka on Sunday, which was swiftly rejected by Sunderland. Sources close to the Black Cats expressed surprise at the low offer. Sunderland maintain that Xhaka, who has two years remaining on his contract, is not for sale and will reject any further approaches.
Xhaka, who turns 34 this year, previously worked with Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen during their historic 2023/24 campaign. The Swiss midfielder is reportedly enthusiastic about reuniting with Alonso at Stamford Bridge. However, Chelsea sources suggested the club would not pay inflated fees for a player of his age, with the £8 million bid reflecting that stance.
Defensive Targets: Chavarria and Lacroix
Chelsea are also pursuing Rayo Vallecano defender Pep Chavarria. The 28-year-old's versatility—able to play left-back and wing-back—appeals to Alonso, who values tactical flexibility. Chavarria is not seen as a direct replacement for Marc Cucurella, who joined Real Madrid for £52 million earlier this month, but rather as additional depth.
Negotiations are ongoing with Crystal Palace for defender Maxence Lacroix. The France international is Chelsea's primary defensive target this summer, and the club made a formal enquiry last week. Lacroix is open to a move across London, but no agreement has been reached. Sources confirm Chelsea have not yet submitted an official bid, though the situation remains fluid.
Player Sales to Fund Rebuild
Chelsea have placed a £75 million price tag on right-back Malo Gusto, who is a target for Manchester City. Manager Enzo Maresca is keen to reunite with Gusto, and Chelsea will not block the move if the valuation is met. Trevoh Chalobah is valued at £35 million (potentially £30 million plus £5 million in add-ons), with Serie A side Como and Inter Milan monitoring the Cobham academy product.
Enzo Fernandez, who has attracted interest from Real Madrid, is valued at £120 million. Real Madrid, now managed by former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho, have identified Fernandez as their top midfield target. The Argentina international is keen on the move, and personal terms are not expected to be an issue.
Jorrel Hato Set for Key Role
Netherlands international Jorrel Hato is expected to become a key player under Alonso. The 20-year-old struggled initially after joining Chelsea but improved in the second half of the season. Capable of playing left-sided centre-back or left-back, Hato is seen as a versatile option for Alonso's tactical system. Sources at Chelsea are satisfied with his progress and anticipate further development in his second campaign.
