Chelsea are preparing for a major summer overhaul as Xabi Alonso arrives at Stamford Bridge with greater influence over recruitment and a contract running until 2030. Although he has not officially begun work, discussions are already under way behind the scenes with Chelsea’s five sporting directors as the club plans for the transfer window, which opens on June 15. Alonso is expected to play a central role in shaping the squad, with BlueCo trusting him more than previous head coaches in transfer decisions.
Midfield is one of Chelsea’s top priorities heading into the 2026/27 season, alongside a central defender and a left-sided winger. The club still have a large amount of expensive attacking talent on the books, but the expectation is that not all of those players will remain at Stamford Bridge next season. Alonso, a highly decorated former central midfielder, is understood to want significant changes in the middle of the pitch as he builds a squad suited to his style.
Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace is one of the leading names linked with Chelsea, and the Blues are long-term admirers of the England youth international. Interest in other midfielders is also being assessed, but some options have become less realistic. Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson is viewed as likely to join Manchester City, while Kobbie Mainoo has recently committed his future to Manchester United by extending his contract.
Enzo Fernandez’s future is increasingly uncertain. Sources suggest the Argentina international is open to leaving Chelsea before the start of the 2026/27 campaign, even though the club would prefer to keep him. Chelsea are not expected to block a sale if a bid in the region of £120 million arrives. Real Madrid would be the most plausible destination if he departs, but it remains unclear whether any club would be willing to meet that valuation. For now, Chelsea are planning for both possibilities.
Moises Caicedo remains a key long-term figure and recently had his contract extended, while captain Reece James is also viewed as an important midfield option when needed. The biggest decision concerns Romeo Lavia, who has struggled with injuries since joining from Manchester City in 2023 for £58 million. When fit, he has shown value, but his repeated fitness issues have raised questions over whether Chelsea should continue with him.
If Lavia stays, Dario Essugo may be sent out on loan to gain more senior experience. If Lavia leaves, Essugo could stay and compete for first-team minutes. Chelsea are also close to adding Valentin Barco from Strasbourg. The Argentine is expected to join the BlueCo project and can operate in central midfield or at left-back, offering versatility for Alonso’s plans.
Andrey Santos is another player Chelsea hope will improve in his second season after showing flashes of quality without maintaining consistent form. He is expected to remain part of the long-term picture as Alonso begins reshaping Chelsea’s midfield for the new era.
