Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has sent a strong signal that the club intends to significantly reduce its bloated defensive options this summer transfer window.
According to BBC Sport, Chelsea are open to selling Axel Disasi, Benoit Badiashile, and Trevoh Chalobah as Alonso looks to reshape his squad.
The Spanish tactician only recently took charge at Stamford Bridge, inheriting a large squad that contains considerable deadwood across several positions.
When asked directly how many centre-backs he would ideally want in his squad, Alonso stated he would like four or five defenders at his disposal.
Chelsea currently have six recognised centre-backs in their pre-season setup, a number that already exceeds what Alonso considers his ideal working group.
Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill, Josh Acheampong, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Aaron Anselmino are all present in pre-season, with new signing Maxence Lacroix also added to the mix.
With Lacroix’s arrival pushing the numbers even further beyond Alonso’s preferred limit, the futures of Disasi, Badiashile, and Chalobah look increasingly uncertain at the club.
Chelsea supporters will be eager for these situations to be resolved quickly, as funds raised from player sales could directly support further incoming transfers this summer.
The Blues have already made notable additions, with Morgan Rogers and Lacroix among the proven names brought in ahead of the new campaign.
However, questions remain about the squad’s depth up front, with Liam Delap and Nicolas Jackson considered by some to not quite match the level Alonso requires.
Joao Pedro appears to be the frontrunner for the first-choice striking role, but a lack of quality cover behind him remains a potential concern for the new manager.
Chelsea are also reportedly preparing an improved bid for Alex Scott, though the club’s offer is still believed to fall short of Bournemouth’s valuation for the midfielder.
Enzo Fernandez has shown some inconsistency in recent performances and appears unsettled, which could prompt Alonso to consider changes in the central midfield area as well.
Resolving the defensive surplus remains the most pressing piece of business, and Alonso has made it abundantly clear which direction the club intends to move in.
