Chelsea are preparing for a significant summer transfer window under newly appointed manager Xabi Alonso, with the Spaniard reportedly identifying five key targets to reshape the squad. Alonso officially takes charge on July 1st, having agreed a four-year deal with the club, and has been granted considerable authority over transfer decisions by the ownership group, BlueCo.
The first addition to Alonso’s project is already confirmed, with striker Emmanuel Emegha joining from sister club Strasbourg. Argentine left-back Valentin Barco is also set to arrive at Stamford Bridge, having already secured two senior international caps for his country. However, Alonso is aiming for further reinforcements, prioritizing an elite number nine, an experienced goalkeeper, and a ball-playing centre-back.
According to a report from Caught Offside, Alonso’s primary target is Victor Osimhen, currently at Galatasaray. The 27-year-old striker previously came close to joining Chelsea two summers ago from Napoli, with a personal agreement in place, but a deal could not be reached with the Italian club. He eventually moved to Galatasaray on loan, which was later made permanent. TEAMtalk reports that initial conversations regarding a potential deal for Osimhen have already taken place.
Alongside Osimhen, Alonso is also considering options in goal, with France and AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan back on Chelsea’s radar. TEAMtalk previously revealed a list of six goalkeepers admired by the manager. In defence, Bayer Leverkusen’s Edmund Tapsoba has emerged as a potential target, offering Alonso the opportunity to reunite with a player he previously managed.
There is also reported interest in bringing a former Chelsea player back to the club, who was sold for £28 million just two years ago, though any such move would present challenges. These planned acquisitions signal a clear intent from Alonso and Chelsea to rebuild a competitive squad capable of challenging for major honours.
