Chelsea have now emerged as the odds-on favourites to win the race for Bournemouth star Alex Scott this summer. The 22-year-old midfielder rejected a new contract at the Cherries this summer, which has put a number of clubs on alert.

The first defeat of the Xabi Alonso era proved to be a painful one.

Roman Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK government in March 2022 over alleged links to Russian president Vladimir Putin - something he has denied. He was granted a special licence to sell Chelsea following Russia's invasion of Ukraine,

The France international was part of the Palace side that won the FA Cup in 2025 and the Conference League in May.

The Blues are making some big splashes to bolster Xabi Alonso’s roster.

Preseason derby

Chelsea are preparing to reward Joao Pedro with a significant new contract after his outstanding first season at Stamford Bridge, sources have confirmed to TEAMtalk. The Brazil international is already tied to the Blues until 2032 after signing a seven-year deal following his arrival from Brighton & Hove Albion in the summer of 2025.

Chelsea just signed another striker, despite already boasting an abundance of center forward options.