Chelsea will face Leeds United at Stamford Bridge in the Carabao Cup third round if Xabi Alonso’s side overcome Luton Town on Thursday night.
The third-round draw was completed on Wednesday evening before Chelsea have even entered the competition, with the winner of Thursday’s second-round tie handed a home game against Leeds.
It gives Alonso’s side a clear route into the next stage before their 7.30pm meeting with Luton at Stamford Bridge.
🏆 OFFICIAL: Chelsea or Luton will face Leeds United in the Carabao Cup third round.
The winner of tomorrow night’s tie will host Leeds in the next round. 👀#CFC pic.twitter.com/uISUbmF79D
— ChelseaReport (@chelsreport_) August 26, 2026
Chelsea handed potential Leeds Carabao Cup tie
Chelsea must first overcome League One side Luton before attention can turn towards Leeds.
The Blues begin their Carabao Cup campaign on Thursday after entering at the second-round stage, while ReadChelsea’s Chelsea vs Luton guide has all the TV channel, live-stream and kick-off information.
Alonso is expected to rotate significantly following Monday’s 3-2 victory over Fulham.
ReadChelsea’s predicted Chelsea XI against Luton backs Mike Penders, Estevao and Danny Welbeck for opportunities, while Moises Caicedo and Marco Palestra have already been ruled out.
Several fringe players also have more than cup progression at stake, with five Chelsea players able to strengthen their claims for Sunday’s Premier League game against Brighton.
Leeds already through to third round
Leeds secured their place in round three with a 2-0 victory over Nottingham Forest on Tuesday.
Dan James opened the scoring before James Justin added the second as Leeds eliminated their Premier League opponents. Reuters reported on Leeds’ victory and progression into the third round.
Chelsea and Leeds met in last season’s FA Cup semi-final, when Enzo Fernandez scored the decisive goal to send the Blues to Wembley.
A reunion is therefore now one victory away.
The Carabao Cup third-round fixtures are scheduled across the weeks beginning 7 and 14 September, with the exact date and kick-off time to be confirmed once the second-round ties are complete.
For Chelsea, the equation is straightforward.
Beat Luton on Thursday and Leeds will be coming to Stamford Bridge.
Five Chelsea players fighting for Brighton place against Luton
Five Chelsea players fighting for Brighton place against Luton
Chelsea rule Caicedo and Palestra out vs Luton as Palmer fit
Chelsea rule Caicedo and Palestra out vs Luton as Palmer fit