As the summer approaches, Chelsea are gearing up for a transformative period both on and off the pitch. Their participation in the revamped FIFA Club World Cup, beginning in mid-June, means an unusual transfer window for the Blues as they look to bolster their squad for the 2025/26 season.
The club has already made strides by securing the services of Geovany Quenda and Dario Essugo from Sporting CP, with the latter set to land at Stamford Bridge before the World Cup kicks off. While Quenda is earmarked for summer 2026, the acquisitions are just the beginning of what promises to be a frenetic period of activity.
A clinical central striker is paramount, as Chelsea aim to address their attacking deficiencies. High on their wishlist is Viktor Gyokeres, the Swedish marksman from Sporting Lisbon, who boasts an enviable tally of 83 goals in 91 matches. The 26-year-old, renowned for his physical prowess and speed, could be available for £84 million—a potential game-changer for the Blues’ front line.
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Beyond the centre-forward position, Chelsea are eyeing reinforcements on the left wing. Despite narrowing down their January shortlist to Alejandro Garnacho, Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, and Mathys Tel, the latter appears to be heading towards a permanent stay at Tottenham Hotspur after his loan. Bynoe-Gittens could be secured for a reported £66.8 million, yet such ambitious signings necessitate financial manoeuvring.
The Blues are prepared to offload players to facilitate these incoming moves. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall faces an uncertain future, potentially exiting after a single season unless fortunes change dramatically. Additionally, several loaned-out players seem set for permanent departures. Raheem Sterling’s underwhelming performance at Arsenal, Ben Chilwell’s peripheral role at Crystal Palace, and Armando Broja’s injury struggles at Everton all point to exits.
Kepa Arrizabalaga, nearing the end of his contract, has shown promise at Bournemouth but is likely to be sold. Meanwhile, Joao Felix’s unsettled stint at AC Milan means his long-term Chelsea future is dubious. Finally, Axel Disasi, thriving at Aston Villa, could command a favourable price if he maintains his form, aiding Chelsea’s summer regeneration plans.
Chelsea’s proactive approach this window mirrors their ambitions both in the immediate and long-term, setting the stage for a significant reshaping of their ranks ahead of domestic and international competitions.