Palestra hijacked for €55m
Marco Palestra is heading to Stamford Bridge, not the San Siro. Chelsea have moved ahead of Inter Milan to agree a €55 million deal for the Atalanta wing-back, with the move greenlit by Xabi Alonso (1). Inter are already scrambling with a four-name shortlist for a replacement (2). The 22-year-old Italian fits Alonso's system at wing-back and is the first major signing of the Alonso era.
Alonso scouting at the World Cup
Xabi Alonso is at the 2026 World Cup, and he is working. The new Chelsea manager is evaluating talent for potential summer signings while taking in tournament matches (8). With the Palestra deal already moving, Alonso's presence signals more moves are being lined up.
Delap to Everton gaining ground
Everton are leading the race for Liam Delap, with Chelsea expecting a permanent sale (4). David Moyes wants him, and a £25m deal is being discussed. Ipswich, Newcastle, and Leeds have also asked about the striker, who managed only one league goal last season. Joao Pedro, Tyrique George, Benoit Badiashile, and Axel Disasi could also depart as Alonso reshapes the squad.
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Gusto priced out of a move
Chelsea want to sell Malo Gusto, but they are not budging on price. The club has "no intention" of accepting current offers, which has stalled any deal (5). Selling players is part of the summer plan, but Chelsea's valuation is proving a barrier.
Lollichon backs Penders
Christophe Lollichon, the legendary former Chelsea goalkeeping coach, has given incoming keeper Mike Penders his endorsement: "very good potential" (6). Penders arrives this summer, and Lollichon also flagged one area of weakness in his game, though the assessment is broadly positive.
Club World Cup brought in £84m
Chelsea's Club World Cup win delivered more than a trophy. The club earned £84 million from the competition, underlining the financial muscle that underpins BlueCo's strategy (7). It is the kind of revenue that funds moves like the Palestra deal.
Garnacho and left-wing clearout
Ben Jacobs reports Chelsea are willing to sell two left-wing options to make room for new attacking additions (3). Alejandro Garnacho's name is in the mix. Jacobs' message: "Keep an eye…" on that position.
