Ken Bates, 1931–2026
Former Chelsea chairman Ken Bates has died at 94, the club confirmed Saturday (1) (3). He bought Chelsea for £1 in 1982 and ran the club for 21 years, dragging it out of financial collapse and laying the groundwork for the Roman Abramovich era. Without Bates, there is no modern Chelsea. Fans will remember the rough edges and the relentless survival instinct.
Garnacho set for the exit, €50m the price
Chelsea are ready to sell Alejandro Garnacho and value him at €50m (5). The winger has not reported for pre-season training under Xabi Alonso and the club is working with his camp to find a permanent exit (2). Bobby Vincent reports a deal is close at that asking price (4).
Garnacho started only one of Chelsea's last 12 league matches last season and is understood to be disappointed by the lack of opportunities (2). Manchester United hold a sell-on clause and stand to collect a portion of any fee (5).
Andrey Santos is in the same boat, also training away from the core group (3) (5).
Bartel joins Juventus permanently
Julia Bartel has left Chelsea Women to join Juventus on a permanent deal (4). The midfielder moves on as Sonia Bompastor reshapes the squad this summer.
