Alonso walks through the door at Cobham
Xabi Alonso is officially your new head coach. He arrived at Cobham today, Thursday, to begin work (1) (6). The Spaniard signed his contract and started immediately. Twelve first-team players reported for the first session of pre-season under him (2).
Alonso was direct with his first words as Chelsea boss: "It is a privilege to be part of this great club" (2).
Andrey Santos to Manchester United, £50m agreed
Andrey Santos is heading to Old Trafford. Chelsea and Manchester United have reached a swift agreement for the midfielder, with the fee at £50m (4) (7).
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Fabrizio Romano reports that Santos views United as the "perfect chapter" for his career (7). INEOS were reportedly surprised by one of Chelsea's requests during talks, but the deal is done (4).
Garnacho door is open
Alejandro Garnacho can leave this summer after just one season at Stamford Bridge. Two top sources confirm there is now a "concrete" chance of a departure (3).
Chelsea are ready to open the door for a permanent deal if the offer is right. Romano adds that Garnacho is "not untouchable" and initial movements with interested clubs have already started (3).
Alonso's fingerprints on two summer targets
The new boss is already shaping the squad. Insider Ben Jacobs says Alonso has his "fingerprints" on two potential deals: winger Pep Chavarria and defender Marco Palestra (5). Both are players Alonso knows well and wants at Chelsea this window.
Reece James doubt for England quarter-final
Reece James has suffered another setback with England. His fitness is in question ahead of the World Cup quarter-final against Norway (8). Thomas Tuchel is monitoring the situation closely, hoping James can ease a selection crisis in the England camp.
Midfield reshuffle looming
The Enzo Fernandez situation has sparked a wider look at Chelsea's midfield. With Fernandez seeking an exit and Santos now sold, a ranking of every midfielder at the club from worst to best landed this week (9). The picture is shifting fast under Alonso.
Fan reactions
The mood around Alonso's arrival is electric. Supporters flooded the subreddit with welcome messages after the club posted "a new chapter awaits" alongside an image of the Spaniard. His first quote, "it is a privilege to be part of this great club," landed hard in the best possible way. On Garnacho, the reaction was more split, with some fans surprised the club is open to selling after just one season, though few seem devastated by the prospect of cashing in. Read more here.
