Chelsea have already spent big this summer, breaking the British transfer record with a £117m fee for Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa. Marco Palestra joined for £43m, and Maxence Lacroix is set to arrive after a medical.
Alonso's Flexible Plan
Alonso beat Arsenal to Rogers and believes he can utilise the 24-year-old. He said: “One of his best qualities is that he is flexible. He plays in that pocket position, close to the striker, close to our number ten – but he has also played on the right side even though he is more used to coming from the left. He feels he is enjoying his game, his flow, and I'm sure he will have good connections with the other players around him. If we get those connections right, that will be a great step forward in the quality of our game.”
Strengthening the Backline
Lacroix is arriving, but Chelsea have shipped 158 Premier League goals over the last three campaigns. Marc Cucurella left for Real Madrid for £52m. Tosin Adarabioyo and Benoit Badiashile could depart. John Stones, a six-time Premier League winner who left Manchester City at the end of his contract, is a key target. Talks have also started with Rayo Vallecano for Pep Chavarria, who has four years left on his deal.
Valentin Barco and Alex Scott
Valentin Barco is still expected to join after a £34m deal was agreed with Strasbourg, despite a World Cup incident with Jude Bellingham. His arrival is imminent after his summer break. Alex Scott has rejected a fresh contract from Bournemouth; Chelsea had a £64m offer turned down. He could cost £80m, but the Cherries may now negotiate given his contractual circumstances.
Managing the Squad Size
Further exits are expected. Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah, and Pedro Neto may leave. Napoli have enquired about Badiashile, who is interested in heading to France. Como had a third offer for Chalobah rejected; Chelsea hold a £35m valuation. Several Premier League clubs want Neto, but Chelsea demand a hefty price. Enzo Fernandez's future is also uncertain. Alonso said: “We need to know that there will probably still be some movement. We need to be flexible and quick to act. The main thing is that we have a clear idea, a clear plan that we have built. It will probably change before the transfer window closes.”
