Chelsea reshapes squad under Xabi Alonso with new signings
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso outlined his squad plans during a pre‑season press conference in Sydney ahead of the friendly against Tottenham. He praised newly signed French defender Maxence Lacroix, calling him reliable, mature and ready to strengthen the back line. Alonso also said he wants only four to five central defenders in the squad, hinting at possible exits for players such as Benoît Badiashile, Axel Disasi and Trevoh Chalobah, while welcoming back winger Nicolas Jackson.
Alonso lauded midfielder Moisés Caicedo, describing him as one of the best defensive midfielders in the world. At the same time, Chelsea confirmed the imminent signing of veteran England midfielder Jordan Henderson on a free transfer, a two‑year deal running to June 2028, to add experience and balance to a largely youthful roster.
Chelsea is also looking to sell centre‑back Axel Disasi for around £25 million. Everton and Crystal Palace have shown interest, with Palace reportedly better placed financially after receiving £51‑52 million from the Lacroix deal. The club’s transfer strategy is shifting to blend seasoned leaders with its youth‑led project.
Entities
Axel Disasi · Benoit Badiashile · Chelsea Football Club · Jordan Henderson · Maxence Lacroix · Moisés Caicedo · Xabi Alonso
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how well corroborated each claim is across sources.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Chelsea is seeking to sell Axel Disasi for around £25 million. the4thofficial.net
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Chelsea signed French defender Maxence Lacroix. chelseabrasil.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Jordan Henderson’s role at Chelsea is to provide experience and leadership to a youthful squad. readchelsea.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Everton is interested in Axel Disasi but is advised to avoid paying £25 million. the4thofficial.net
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Crystal Palace has £51‑52 million income from the Lacroix deal, enabling them to meet Chelsea’s valuation for Disasi. the4thofficial.net
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Xabi Alonso said he wants four to five central defenders in Chelsea’s squad. www.tuttomercatoweb.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Jordan Henderson will join Chelsea on a free transfer with a two‑year contract until June 2028. readchelsea.com · www.caughtoffside.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Xabi Alonso described Moisés Caicedo as one of the best defensive midfielders in the world. www.metroecuador.com.ec · www.elcomercio.com · www.expreso.ec