Chelsea enter the 2026/27 season under new manager Xabi Alonso after finishing 10th in the Premier League last term.
Chelsea have also reshaped their squad heavily, bringing in 11 new signings during another busy summer transfer window.
Their additions include Maxence Lacroix, Morgan Rogers, Geovany Quenda, Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck.
However, late departures now dominate Chelsea’s plans as the September deadline approaches and several players edge closer to exits.
Axel Disasi is close to joining Crystal Palace on loan, while Benoit Badiashile has finalised a loan move to Napoli.
Chelsea are also negotiating Nicolas Jackson’s permanent departure to Aston Villa during the final days of the window.
Meanwhile, Manchester City continue to pursue Enzo Fernandez despite Chelsea valuing him at more than £120 million.
City have kept communication open with Fernandez’s camp, while Chelsea are already assessing possible replacements should he leave.
According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea have made Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott their top target to replace Enzo Fernandez if Manchester City make a firm offer.
Chelsea already saw Bournemouth reject an offer worth around £64 million earlier this summer, but their interest remains strong.
Scott rejected another contract offer from Bournemouth this month, increasing Chelsea’s belief that he would consider a move.
The 22-year-old made 39 appearances across all competitions last season and scored four goals for Bournemouth.
Chelsea could now raise their offer significantly and go as high as £85 million to test Bournemouth’s resolve.
The Blues are also assessing Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton as alternative options.
However, Scott remains Chelsea’s preferred choice, and much will depend on Manchester City’s next move for Fernandez.
City have indicated they will not pay Chelsea’s £120 million-plus asking price, although add-ons could bring a deal closer.
Therefore, Fernandez’s future could directly shape Chelsea’s final major midfield move before the summer transfer window closes.
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