Report: Chelsea close in on first Xabi Alonso signing, transfer target says goodbye on social media
Report: Chelsea close in on first Xabi Alonso signing, transfer target says goodbye on social media Chelsea are closing in on a deal for Valentin Barco with discussions ongoing with his representatives according to reports. DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CHELSEA NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON THE APP STORE The Blues are expected to be busy this summer, with new manager Xabi Alonso reportedly going to have a say in transfers.
Chelsea are said to be in the market for a centre back, whilst it’s believed they want to add another midfielder and attacker. Chelsea close in on Valentin Barco deal The Blues have been heavily criticised for their youth focused recruitment policy, but co-owner Behdad Eghbali has said the model will be tweaked. Chelsea are said to be prepared to target players with proven Premier League experience, but fans will only believe it when they see it.
The Blues already have Geovany Quenda and Emmanuel Emegha arriving this summer, and it looks like Barco will also make the switch to Stamford Bridge. Barco said his goodbyes to Strasbourg on Instagram on Sunday evening after their final game of the season against Monaco. It’s been widely reported Barco will join Chelsea, and L’Equipe have reported conversations between his representatives and the Blues continue.
The report adds the 21-year-old is expected to sign a six year contract at Stamford Bridge, where he would link up with former Strasbourg players Emmanuel Emegha and Mamadou Sarr. Barco scored three goals and registered nine assists in 43 appearances in all competitions this season, and looks set to return to the Premier League. If you enjoy Chelsea News coverage and want to see more of it, add us as a preferred source on Google to make us a favourite and see more of our content.
View this post on Instagram In other news… Jamie Carragher believes Xabi Alonso is a fantastic appointment for Chelsea, and could help keep some of their top players without Champions League football. More Stories / Latest News Report: Chelsea close in on first Xabi Alonso signing, transfer target says goodbye on social media 20th May 2026, 07:45am Chelsea fans make their feelings of discontent known even after beating Spurs 20th May 2026, 07:30am The Guardian: Chelsea to battle Man United and Liverpool for 21 g/a Premier League ace 20th May 2026, 07:15am Chelsea officially announced the appointment of Alonso on a four year contract on Sunday, and he will begin work on July 1st. Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here: