Chelsea eye January signings and 2026 Locatelli bid

Chelsea are preparing further signings in the January window and planning for more arrivals in 2026 as manager Enzo Maresca seeks to shore up a squad weakened by injuries and defensive inconsistency, club and former scouting sources said. The immediate priorities are a new goalkeeper and additional centrebacks, while longer term planning includes a senior midfield target as the club looks to add experience and depth.

Former Manchester United and Blackburn Rovers chief scout Mick Brown said Chelsea have the resources and inclination to spend heavily. He added that Maresca is not entirely satisfied with the current squad and has identified defensive weaknesses that undermine the team’s attacking progress. Club officials and recruitment staff are reported to already be scouting options for goalkeepers and centrebacks to stabilise the back line.

In midfield, Chelsea have registered interest in Juventus captain Manuel Locatelli as a possible 2026 signing. The 27 year old Italy international is valued for his defensive midfield qualities and progressive passing, and multiple clubs are said to be monitoring his situation. Juventus regard Locatelli as important to their squad but would...