Chelsea are under pressure to deliver in the summer for new manager Xabi Alonso, and have made a good start before the transfer window has even opened.
The Blues have named Alonso their manager rather than head coach, suggesting he will have more of a say over the calibre of player that will come in.
The Spaniard wants a couple of new defenders to join him at the club, and is also prepared to get involved to convince Lewis Hall to join if the Blues push on with that.
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Via – GRV Media
Xabi Alonso is a fan of Chelsea’s Valentin Barco signing
It has already been widely reported that a deal has been agreed for Chelsea to sign Valentin Barco from fellow BlueCo club, Strasbourg.
The Argentine has enjoyed a brilliant season, and was the subject of interest from Bayern Munich before a deal was agreed with Chelsea.
RC Strasbourg Alsace v AS Monaco - Ligue 1 McDonald's 2025/2026
Photo by Sathire Kelpa/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
SecretSourc has reported that Chelsea are planning for him to play a key role under Alonso, who has already given the signing his seal of approval.
He said: “Valentín Barco will join Chelsea in the 26/27 season, with the club internally planning for the Argentine to be crucial in the squad and project under new head coach Xabi Alonso.
“Chelsea have already discussed the player with Alonso, who appreciates Barco’s profile, versatility and technical quality — capable of operating as a left-back, wing-back and midfielder when needed.
“Club believe his intensity on the ball, creativity in build-up phases and tactical flexibility make him an ideal fit for Alonso’s system. Chelsea see Barco as a long-term piece for the project rather than a short-term option.”
Barco has already said his goodbyes to Strasbourg fans, with him becoming the latest in a line of players to be signed from the Ligue 1 side.
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Barco signing causing anger in France
Strasbourg boss Gary O’Neil admitted it was frustrating that Barco was going to be leaving at the end of the season, with him being one of their best players.
Liam Rosenior’s replacement in France is showing his discomfort at a number of issues lately, and this is putting his own future at doubt.
Strasbourg are looking at Filipe Luis to become their new head coach, after he was one of those mentioned as a candidate to take over at Stamford Bridge.
Emanuel Emegha is another who is set to leave Strasbourg this summer, although it remains to be seen what Chelsea’s plan with him is.
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