epa12966542 (FILE) - Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso looks on prior the German Bundesliga soccer match between Bayer 04 Leverkusen and 1.FC Union Berlin, in Leverkusen, Germany, 12 April 2025 (reissued on 17 May 2026). Chelsea Football Club announced on 17 May 2026 that they have appointed Xabi Alonso as their new manager. Alonso will start on 01 July 2026 and has agreed on a four-year contract. EPA/CHRISTOPHER NEUNDORF CONDITIONS - ATTENTION: The DFL regulations prohibit any use of photographs as image sequences and/or quasi-video.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso (Picture: EPA)
Chelsea are working on a surprise move to sign Brentford and England midfielder Jordan Henderson on a free transfer, according to reports.
Multiple Premier League clubs are said to be interested in completing a deal for Henderson, who made 32 league appearances for Brentford last season.
But widespread reports indicate that Chelsea are leading the way to sign the 36-year-old as they look to add much-needed experience to Xabi Alonso’s squad.
Henderson, who captained Liverpool to Premier League glory in 2020, is said to be open to the move across London.
The experienced midfielder still has one year remaining on his Brentford contract after arriving from Ajax last summer, but it is said that the Bees may allow Henderson to leave on a free transfer.
Ask Metro
Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about – powered by Metro and trusted publications.
Henderson was part of Thomas Tuchel’s England squad at the World Cup, but made just one substitute appearance against Panama before breaking his arm after falling over an advertising board during his side’s win over Mexico in the last-16.
More to follow…
MORE: Rio Ferdinand urges Chelsea target to snub Xabi Alonso and pursue Man Utd transfer
MORE: Chelsea in advanced talks to sign ex-Arsenal and Man Utd forward
MORE: ‘Is he what Chelsea needs?’ – Marcel Desailly questions £52m transfer move