Chelsea face a major task over the next 25 days after being forced to offload 16 players in an effort to reduce the size of their first-team squad, which currently consists of 41 players.
According to BBC Sport, the pressure has increased following FIFA’s ban on the use of the “bomb squad” approach, with head coach Xabi Alonso targeting a squad of just 25 players ahead of the new season.
Meanwhile, Chelsea have continued to strengthen their squad after reaching an agreement to sign Rayo Vallecano left-back Pep Chavarría.
The deal has been completed for a fee of €19 million, with a further €2 million available in add-ons depending on the achievements and performance targets included in the agreement. The Spanish defender is now expected to travel to London to undergo his medical before signing his contract with Chelsea.
The agreement between Chelsea and Rayo Vallecano has been finalised, with the final paperwork now being completed before the London club officially announces Chavarría as their new player.
Chelsea are now entering a crucial period of the transfer window. Alongside bringing in new players, the club must also significantly reduce the size of its squad to meet the coaching staff’s plans and requirements ahead of the 2026/27 season.
