Chelsea's Xabi Alonso pauses transfers, evaluates young defender Sarr

New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, appointed in May 2026, has told the club to hold off on any immediate signings while he assesses the squad during pre‑season. He is focusing on the right‑back position, with interest in Italian Serie A players Marco Palestra of Atalanta and Brazilian full‑back Wesley of Roma, though both clubs are expected to demand high fees.

Alonso has also asked Chelsea to delay any decision on 20‑year‑old Senegal international centre‑back Mamadou Sarr until he can see the player in training. Sarr, who signed an eight‑year deal in June 2025 and has already featured in the Club World Cup and an FA Cup match, may be loaned or sold if he does not impress, with RB Leipzig reported to be watching.

The manager’s early actions suggest a hands‑on approach to squad building, aiming to avoid the club’s recent pattern of managers inheriting unshaped rosters.