Xabi Alonso making his mark at Chelsea. Photo: Getty Images
Chelsea are advancing in discreet negotiations to sign 22-year-old Brazilian centre-back Jonathan Jesus from Cruzeiro.
Stamford Bridge’s recruitment department is utilising the club’s multi-team BlueCo structure to shape the transfer.
Under the planned pathway, the defender would first join Ligue 1 side Strasbourg to adapt to European football before eventually making the step up to Chelsea.
Personal terms between Chelsea and the player’s camp are close to being finalised. The 22-year-old is understood to prefer a guaranteed development route in France rather than facing immediate Premier League pressure.
Xabi Alonso has brought Maxense Lacroix in from Crystal Palace as a first team option this transfer window, while Levi Colwill returns after a season long injury. Meanwhile, Trevoh Chalobah has moved to Como.
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Zenit Rejected & Tottenham Interest
Russian side Zenit St. Petersburg attempted to hijack the move with a strong financial offer, including a lucrative salary and a significant signing bonus.
Jonathan Jesus, however, turned down the proposal and made clear his preference for the Strasbourg-to-Chelsea progression.
Tottenham have also been monitoring the defender, who is under contract with Cruzeiro until June 30, 2029.
Spurs scouts have followed Jesus closely since his arrival at Cruzeiro in July 2024. While Tottenham made initial inquiries to add a young defensive option to Roberto De Zerbi’s backline, Chelsea’s structured BlueCo project has placed them ahead in the race.
Chelsea are preparing an updated bid for Cruzeiro that includes a sell-on clause, with negotiations expected to reach a conclusion soon.