Chelsea have identified Leeds United’s Gabriel Gudmundsson as a primary target to reinforce their left-back position, according to reports in Sweden. The potential move comes as Xabi Alonso seeks to reshape the Chelsea squad following an underwhelming tenth-place finish in the Premier League last season, and after sanctioning the departure of Marc Cucurella back to Real Madrid.
Swedish publication Expressen claims that Chelsea are preparing a substantial offer for the 27-year-old Gudmundsson, who joined Leeds from Lille last summer for £10 million. The Sweden international quickly became a key player for Daniel Farke’s side, making 32 Premier League appearances and earning the club’s Supporters’ Trust Player of the Year award. His energetic performances and tactical flexibility, particularly in a 5-4-1-1 formation, were vital to Leeds’ campaign.
While Leeds chairman Paraag Marathe has indicated that player sales may be necessary to strengthen the squad, the club are reportedly reluctant to sell Gudmundsson, viewing him as an “untouchable” asset. Farke is also believed to be keen to retain the player, especially considering the team’s existing need for cover in that position. However, Chelsea’s potential offer could present a significant challenge to Leeds’ resolve.
Alonso has already secured one full-back signing, Marco Palestra from Atalanta, and is reportedly prepared to be aggressive in the transfer market. This could lead to a similarly substantial bid for Gudmundsson, despite Leeds’ initial resistance. It remains unclear whether Gudmundsson himself would be open to a move, though he is said to be settled and appreciative of the opportunity Leeds has given him. A successful transfer would provide Alonso with another key piece in his rebuilding project at Stamford Bridge, and could significantly strengthen Chelsea’s options at left-back.
