Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso has announced his intention to streamline his roster, specifically targeting a group of four to five central defenders for the 2026/27 campaign. Alonso shared these plans during a press conference held before the team’s upcoming pre-season fixture against Tottenham.
The squad’s depth at the back has grown significantly following the acquisition of Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace in a deal valued at approximately £51 million, bringing the total count of center-backs to 10. Reports from Sky Sports suggest that Benoit Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah, and Axel Disasi are primary candidates for departure during the current transfer window.
Chelsea’s current defensive roster includes Josh Acheampong, Aaron Anselmino, Benoit Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah, Levi Colwill, Axel Disasi, Wesley Fofana, Maxence Lacroix, Mamadou Sarr, and Tosin Adarabioyo.
