Chelsea have reportedly opened talks to sign Brentford midfielder Jordan Henderson and Brighton striker Danny Welbeck, signalling a shift towards adding seasoned campaigners to their youthful squad. The move comes after losing Andrey Santos to Manchester United for £50million.
Henderson and Welbeck moves
Henderson, 36, is available on a free transfer this summer and Chelsea are in discussions to bring the former Liverpool captain to Stamford Bridge. Meanwhile, Welbeck, 35, has agreed personal terms with the Blues after a career-best season in which he scored 13 Premier League goals for Brighton. Welbeck made his Manchester United debut 18 years ago.
Chris Wood alternative
Should the Welbeck deal collapse, Chelsea could turn to Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood. The 34-year-old New Zealander managed only three goals last season due to injury but scored 34 in his previous two top-flight campaigns, offering a short-term target-man option.
Xhaka and Fabinho midfield targets
Granit Xhaka, 33, was the subject of an £8million bid from Chelsea earlier in the window, which was rejected, with a £25million price tag set. However, Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris has insisted Xhaka will stay at Wearside after his £17.3million move last season. Another midfield alternative is former Liverpool defensive midfielder Fabinho, 32. Despite a dip in form at the end of his Liverpool stint, the Brazilian impressed at Al-Ittihad and could partner Moises Caicedo in a deep role.
Salah and Martinez possibilities
Mohamed Salah, 34, remains a free agent after leaving Liverpool and Chelsea could attempt to re-sign the winger a decade after he left the club. The Blues lack game-changing wide options and Salah could provide that. In goal, Chelsea have four keepers but none convincing, and they could move for Aston Villa's Emi Martinez, 33, who is again looking to leave. Martinez is valued at less than £10million, with Juventus and PSG also interested.
Kazuyoshi Miura
As a wildcard, Japanese striker Kazuyoshi Miura, 59, would epitomise the 'Dad's Army' approach. He debuted for Santos in 1986 and played top-flight football in Japan until 2021, now featuring in the third tier. He has not scored double figures since 2001.
