Chelsea reshaped their squad extensively during Xabi Alonso’s first summer in charge, overseeing a significant number of arrivals and departures.
The Blues generated more than £300 million from sales, including Enzo Fernandez’s £125 million move to Manchester City.
Nicolas Jackson also joined Aston Villa for £65 million as Chelsea moved several established players out of Stamford Bridge.
Meanwhile, Morgan Rogers, Maxence Lacroix and Joao Pedro arrived as part of Alonso’s rebuild.
Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck added further experience to a squad that has produced an entertaining start to the campaign.
Chelsea have beaten Fulham and Brighton in the Premier League, alongside recording a 6-3 EFL Cup victory over Leeds United.
Their recruitment plans also continue to include emerging talent, with the club now pursuing one of Manchester United’s leading academy prospects.
According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea are leading the race for 15-year-old JJ Gabriel after he requested his release from Manchester United.
The Blues are attempting to convince Gabriel that Stamford Bridge represents the right destination for the next stage of his development.
Gabriel has formally submitted a letter of de-registration, although United do not want to grant his request.
Chelsea face significant competition, with several leading Premier League and European clubs having contacted the youngster’s representatives.
Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus have all made contact, according to the report.
Gabriel also has offers from Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and Manchester City, but Chelsea currently lead the race.
United have long recognised the threat of losing Gabriel and previously prepared scholarship terms alongside a pre-contract agreement for professional terms.
The teenager became United’s youngest Under-18 player at 14 before later training with the first team.
He also earned the Under-18 Premier League Player of the Season award before featuring against Atletico Madrid during pre-season.
United remain determined to retain Gabriel, but Chelsea are pushing to take advantage of his request to leave.
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