Chelsea could still sign a player or two this month, but the bulk of their transfer business for 2026 will be done in the summer.
Right now, the Blues want to sign a midfielder and central defender. However, that is proving difficult, especially with regard to the latter.
Chelsea are keen on Jeremy Jacquet, but Rennes are reluctant to sell the 20-year-old during this transfer window. It has seen the Club World Cup winners recall Aaron Anselmino from his loan at Borussia Dortmund instead.
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Borussia Dortmund's Aaron Anselmino and Strasbourg's Mamadou Sarr
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They could sign Jacquet in the summer, but there is one player who will definitely not be heading to Stamford Bridge before the start of the 2026/27 season.
Fermin Lopez of FC Barcelona with the ball
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Fermin Lopez set to sign new contract at Barcelona
Barcelona star Fermin Lopez was a key target for Chelsea in the last summer transfer window; however, the Blues failed to sign him. And it is almost certain to be the same story if they try again in June, July or August.
The reliable Fabrizio Romano recently shared on X that Lopez has verbally agreed a new deal with Barcelona that will run until 2031.
It is a blow for Chelsea, who would have snapped the attacking midfielder up in the summer had he been available.
Say Morgan Rogers signs for Chelsea β who are you dropping from the XI to fit him in?
Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers at Chelsea
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According to Romano, Chelsea never took Lopez off their shortlist, viewing the 22-year-old as a long-term target.
Unfortunately for them, though, it looks like they have little chance of signing him any time soon.
Fermin Lopez of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring
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How Fermin Lopez performed against Chelsea in the Champions League
Based on how he performed against Chelsea in the Champions League earlier this season, supporters will not be losing sleep over not signing Lopez.
The Spaniard had a game to forget at Stamford Bridge and was taken off just after the hour mark as Barcelona went on to lose 3-0.
As per Sofascore, Lopez failed to have a single shot or register a single key pass. The Spain international could not complete a dribble either.
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