Photo by Eddie Keogh - The FA/The FA via Getty Images
Photo by Eddie Keogh - The FA/The FA via Getty Images
Chelsea have solved the lack of depth in midfield following Andrey Santos’ departure, by bringing in Jordan Henderson and Valentin Barco. So, what does that mean for Adam Wharton and Alex Scott?
Barco’s arrival was the worst-kept secret in football. The Argentine had waved farewell to Strasbourg before the start of the World Cup but it took until Sunday for Chelsea to announce the signing of Barco.
It is believed Barco has set Chelsea back roughly £34m, while Jordan Henderson has arrived at Stamford Bridge on a free transfer. A move that left Brentford fans fuming on social media following his departure.
Chelsea have waved goodbye to Santos for £50m, and brought in two midfielders while making a £16m profit on initial transfer fees, putting amortisation to one side. But Chelsea may sign another midfielder.
Adam Wharton and Alex Scott remain under consideration
For months, England midfielder and Conference League winner Wharton has been linked with a move to Chelsea. After the signing of Maxence Lacroix, it emerged that Wharton was an £86m Chelsea priority.
England Men's Camp
Photo by Eddie Keogh – The FA/The FA via Getty Images
But since Lacroix’s announcement and those initial reports, nothing has emerged. Chelsea have since signed Barco and Henderson, while Chelsea have not followed up an initial £64m offer for Alex Scott.
However, according to Chelsea reporter Simon Phillips, both Wharton and Scott remain candidates for a possible Chelsea move this summer. Some sales will be required first, given both will cost a massive fee.
If Chelsea sign another midfielder, Lavia and Essugo will depart
As things stand, Enzo Fernandez looks as if he is set to remain at Chelsea this summer. That could change when Fernandez returns to pre-season training at Chelsea, with the Blues facing Milan on Saturday.
Asmir Begovic's Chelsea XI for Fulham away
Asmir Begovic's Chelsea XI for Fulham away
But Real Madrid, Fernandez’s choice of club, have just confirmed the signing of Yan Diomande. With Fernandez looking as if he will stay, Moises Caicedo first choice and two new signings, room is needed.
Romeo Lavia and Dario Essugo will already be considering their future at Chelsea following the signings of Henderson and Barco. Another midfield signing will make them surplus to requirements at Chelsea.
If the Blues pursue a big-money move for either Scott or Wharton, it is easy to imagine Lavia and Essugo requesting a departure. Lavia has interest from Monaco while Essugo could request to be sent on loan.