Since taking over from Chelsea back in May 2022, BlueCo have come under fire from the media for their reckless spending and volatility in the transfer market.
More than £1.4b has been spent on new additions over the past four years, with the majority of their investment going forward with young and unproven talent who can thrive at Stamford Bridge.
At times, their recruitment has been successful, but it has seen a large number of players – ultimately leading to a lack of consistency in the Premier League.
The arrival of Xabi Alonso has seen a change in strategy in West London, but it seems that such a model is also under scrutiny.
Why Chelsea are looking at Jordan Henderson
For years, Chelsea’s business has seen many commentators question the lack of senior experience at the highest levels – with the average age of their squad last term at 23.5, the lowest in the division.
As a result, Alonso has looked at proven Premier League options since taking over, which has seen a move for Brentford midfielder Jordan Henderson come close.
|
Lowest rating of teams in PL (2025/26) |
|
|---|---|
|
The team |
Age |
|
Chelsea |
23.5 |
|
Sunderland |
24.8 |
|
Tottenham Hotspur |
24.9 |
|
AFC Bournemouth |
25.1 |
|
Manchester City |
25.2 |
|
Brighton & Hove Albion |
25.5 |
|
The Crystal Palace |
25.7 |
|
Arsenal |
25.8 |
The player has already agreed terms with the Blues and his club are currently keen to terminate his contract so that the 36-year-old can complete a free transfer.
Despite playing 32 times in England’s top flight for the Bees last season, it is unlikely that the former Liverpool star will have a regular place in the manager’s starting eleven.
Because of this, he may play a role similar to the one he filled with the England national team in the World Cup, which saw him play just six minutes in the entire tournament.
Former Chelsea manager and now England boss Thomas Tuchel praised Henderson for being a “natural leader” and a “standards-setter” – something the Blues have sorely lacked in recent years.
There’s no doubt that Alonso has made the addition of experienced leaders a priority this summer, which is a big reason why management are pursuing a move for the Englishman.
How Chelsea can get a quick upgrade from Henderson this summer
Despite a recent change in recruitment strategy, BlueCo are still on the hunt for young prospects – but now confirm they already have significant Premier League experience under their belt.
Morgan Rogers is the biggest example of such a strategy, after joining Aston Villa for £117m, and the 24-year-old has already made 85 appearances in England’s top flight.
He may not be the only player to join in a big-money transfer this summer, as Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott continues to be tipped for a move to the Bridge.
Simon Phillips has given the latest on the 22-year-old’s deal, saying fresh talks have been held with Bournemouth after an initial bid was rejected.
He says that Alonso’s are determined to get the star of the Cherries even though they are reluctant to sell him, which may be seen as an agreement reached if an offer of £80m is presented.
Such a move is unlikely to affect a potential move for Henderson, with BlueCo currently working on deals for both England midfielders this summer.
However, the 36-year-old’s game time could be significantly reduced if a deal is agreed for Scott – the youngster is arguably Alonso’s men’s most important asset.
In the Premier League last season, the 22-year-old finished off some of the passes he attempted, when he received a double high dribble.
Both of the aforementioned figures show his excellent ability to dictate the game from the ground – a role Henderson also held for the Bees last quarter.
Even off the ball, the Cherries star was able to dominate the experienced star, after which he won many championships on the floor and achieved the highest number of defensive contributions of 90.
His average of 6.2 possessions made per 90 was higher than Henderson’s, but he also ranked above 88% of other deep midfielders in Europe’s top five clubs.
Apart from his role as a liar, the young Scott often caught the eye with his runs in the box – which saw him win against Arsenal at the Emirates at the beginning of April.
At just 22 years of age, he has plenty of time to reach the next level in his development under Alonso, and Henderson can use his leadership qualities to guide him to the top.
The 36-year-old will no doubt be unpopular with fans, but his experience could prove vital if the Blues are to claim the Premier League title.
There is no doubt that Scott will be in front of him when he moves to West London, and the Englishman will be able to be the main player in the new manager’s team.
