The 15-point deduction that never was
Stefan Borson has laid out why Chelsea were never going to be relegated. The former financial advisor explained the club's settlement over historical financial breaches under Roman Abramovich was always going to be reduced on appeal (1).
"It was never going to be fifteen points. It was always going to be reduced down. That's important because fifteen points would have relegated them," Borson said (1).
Chelsea ultimately received a fine and a suspended transfer ban, not a points deduction.
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Alonso wants a €70m midfielder
Xabi Alonso has told Chelsea he wants a specific €70m midfielder, the same player he previously asked Real Madrid to sign when he was being considered for that job (2). Arsenal are also watching the situation (2).
No name is confirmed yet, but the profile is clear, a central midfielder Alonso has tracked across two clubs now.
Man City circling Enzo Fernández
Manchester City are targeting Enzo Fernández as a potential Rodri replacement, with Gianluca Di Marzio reporting City are working on their midfield (3). Chelsea are a direct rival, but City see Fernández as the profile they need.
No bid yet, but the interest is concrete.
Chavarria arrives, what about Hato?
Chelsea have agreed a deal for Pep Chavarria, giving Alonso a new option on the left side of defence (4). The signing raises questions about Jorrel Hato's future, with Chavarria arriving as direct competition in that position (4).
United target Scalvini after Santos deal
Manchester United, who already signed Andrey Santos from Chelsea, are now targeting Atalanta's Giorgio Scalvini (5). The 22-year-old Italian international is highly rated, and United have formally requested information on him (5). No direct Chelsea involvement here beyond the Santos connection.
Fan reactions
The Enzo Fernández to City rumour has the subreddit on edge. One fan shared the Di Marzio report and the replies are split between those unwilling to sell to a rival and those wondering if a big fee could fund a rebuild. Elsewhere, Alonso's press conference comments about his goalkeepers, naming Rob Sanchez, Mike Penders, and Teddy Sharman-Lowe, have fans debating whether the club is genuinely settled in that position. Read the full discussion
