Chelsea have held fresh talks with Crystal Palace over the signing of star back Maxence Lacroix
Chelsea’s summer rebuild has already transformed Xabi Alonso’s squad, but there is a growing feeling that the club’s business is far from over.
Morgan Rogers arrived in a £117 million deal, while the Blues continued to add quality Premier League experience in the form of Maxence Lacroix as Alonso overhauled a side that finished well below expectations last season.
After spending that money, Chelsea are expected to move players before the transfer window closes, and Trevoh Chalobah is one of the most obvious players.
The graduate enjoyed a busy campaign in his senior career last season, making 47 appearances before a late call-up to England’s World Cup.
However, Como remains in advanced talks over a permanent move after making several offers, with Chelsea reportedly seeking around £30 million plus add-ons.
Josh Acheampong’s future is very different.
Chelsea reportedly see the 20-year-old as one of the academy’s brightest prospects and Alonso has already given him chances in pre-season.
Despite Crystal Palace’s reported interest, the Blues are understood to be reluctant to leave him permanently as they believe he could be a key first-team player for years to come.
While a move remains part of Chelsea’s plans, there is also a strong belief that another top-class midfielder could still arrive before the deadline.
They have already agreed a deal for Jordan Henderson and are still looking for Alex Scott, but reports suggest they could re-sign Adam Wharton on top of the aforementioned duo.
Wharton has been a favorite inside Stamford Bridge for a long time.
Since leaving Blackburn Rovers for Palace, the Englishman has developed into one of the most promising midfielders in the Premier League.
His composure on the ball, ability to dictate the tempo and incredible range of passing have helped him become a key player for Palace despite only being 22 years old.
Wharton also played a key role as Palace lifted the FA Cup before following up that success with another impressive campaign, despite injuries that have reduced his consistency since his England breakthrough in 2024.
As Chelsea continue to evolve under the new manager, adding another talented midfielder would suit a wider approach.
That brings fresh attention to Chelsea’s fruitful business relationship with Palace.
Chelsea have held fresh talks with Crystal Palace over Adam Wharton
The two clubs, of course, have already held successful talks about Lacroix, and those talks have since expanded to include several other names.
According to journalist Simon Phillips, through his Substack, he has now received confirmation that new talks have taken place between Chelsea and Palace regarding Wharton in recent days.
Palace have every reason to want a big fee for one of their most valuable players, around £80-100m, while Chelsea will need to balance any spending with player sales.
However, ongoing dialogue between the clubs suggests Wharton remains firmly on Chelsea’s shortlist as Alonso continues to shape his squad.
Whether a move happens this summer or not, the interest underlines how highly Chelsea rate the England international.
Had Palace been willing to negotiate, Wharton would have given Chelsea another Premier League-proven young player who could be the cornerstone of Alonso’s project for years to come.
