One of the most frustrating seasons for Chelsea has now finally come to an end. And it did so alongside their hopes of playing in Europe next season. The Blues finished tenth in the Premier League table following their defeat against Sunderland on the final matchday. Now, it is time to get back to the drawing board.
The Blues have appointed Xabi Alonso as their manager from next season with hopes of rejuvenation, but that is only half of the problems solved. They will now have to convince players to join the side without the chance of competing for any European title.
It is not only the world-class players who desire to feature in those thrilling midweek fixtures under the lights but pretty much every footballer on an upward trajectory. So, that will only make things tougher for the club.
The Blues will now need to regroup and rebuild during the upcoming summer transfer window. And with the club’s current financial situation, the management might need to take a look at a few quality options who could be out of contract and available for a free transfer.
Chelsea should consider Ibrahima Konate
The elite centre-back has established himself as one of Liverpool’s most trusted players since he was brought into the side by former manager Jurgen Klopp back in 2021. Now, after spending five seasons in England, the Frenchman’s contract is all set to expire this summer.
Despite all the rumours, Konate might choose to stay at Anfield for a few more years. While this has been hinted at, no extension has been agreed yet. That does leave the window of opportunity open.
Alonso might just have a Premier League-proven defender like Konate on his mind but currently the Blues might have a tough time convincing him, even if he chose to leave Liverpool.
Bernando Silva
The midfield maestro has now officially bid adieu to Manchester City as he looks for new challenges. Despite him being 31 years old already, one thing is for sure. Bernardo Silva won’t have any shortage of options during the summer transfer window. The Portuguese international is already being linked with the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Now according to recent reports, Chelsea might be considering a move for the veteran midfielder during the coming weeks as they prepare for a likely exit of Enzo Fernandez before the start of the upcoming season.
Despite there being a number of interested clubs already closing in on Silva, the midfielder might just get convinced to come to London. He could be one of the leaders of a new-look Chelsea under Alonso. The new manager certainly needs someone with the calibre of the Portuguese international for his project.
Leon Goretzka
The German midfielder is all set to leave Bayern Munich after spending eight successful years at the Bavarian club. His contract expires at the end of next month. Goretzka is someone who can bring a lot of experience into the middle of the park for the Blues. He might work as an anchor who holds things together, on and off the pitch.
There have been strong rumours linking him with AC Milan. But following their failure to qualify for the Champions League next season, the 31-year-old midfielder might re-evaluate the situation. Also, Max Allegri has been sacked, making things even more uncertain.
How tough will this summer be for Chelsea?
As we have already discussed, the Blues’ failure to qualify for Europe. That will put a significant question mark in every player’s mind this summer, both their own and the ones they intend to bring in.
This is where Alonso needs to come in. He must provide a more convincing road map about what the picture looks like for the Blues at the end of the upcoming season and beyond that. His presence is expected to help but it won’t solve all their problems.