Chelsea’s summer rebuild under new head coach Xabi Alonso continues to gather momentum, with the Blues actively strengthening several areas of the squad as they prepare for the 2026-27 campaign. While much of the early focus has been on reinforcing the defence, the club is also working behind the scenes to add more quality in attack, with a new left winger now emerging as one of their priorities.
The West London club has wasted little time in the transfer market, signalling its intent to build a squad capable of competing for major honours under Alonso. Chelsea have already moved closer to completing the signing of highly rated defender Marco Palestra, who is expected to undergo a medical after arriving in London. The youngster is viewed as one of the club’s long-term investments and fits the recruitment strategy of signing talented players with significant potential.
Chelsea are also pushing to strengthen their defence further, with Maxence Lacroix remaining a major target. Reports suggest the Blues are prepared to spend around £50 million to secure the French defender, whose pace, physicality and experience in a back-three system make him an ideal fit for Alonso’s tactical approach.
Chelsea Still Looking to Strengthen Several Positions
Although defensive reinforcements appear to be progressing well, Chelsea’s recruitment plans extend far beyond the back line. The club is also searching for a new left-back, another central midfielder, additional competition in attack alongside João Pedro and a new centre-forward to improve the squad’s overall depth.
One position that has become increasingly important is the left wing. Chelsea are reportedly keen to upgrade their options after an underwhelming campaign from several attacking players, prompting the club to explore new opportunities in the market.
Recent reports from Portugal suggest the Blues have now identified another exciting young talent capable of strengthening that area.
Andreas Schjelderup Emerges as Chelsea Target
According to Portuguese newspaper Record, Chelsea are among the clubs that have opened discussions over a potential move for Andreas Schjelderup.
The Norwegian winger has steadily built his reputation since joining Benfica in January 2023. Initially signed as one of Europe’s brightest teenage prospects, Schjelderup had to remain patient before earning regular opportunities with the Portuguese giants.
Now 22 years old, the attacker has made 86 appearances for Benfica while contributing directly to 30 goals through a combination of goals and assists. His impressive technical ability, intelligent movement and creativity have made him one of the most highly regarded young attackers in Portuguese football.
Chelsea’s reported interest reflects the club’s desire to recruit players with both immediate quality and long-term potential.
Competition for His Signature Intensifies
Chelsea are not alone in the race. According to the report, Como 1907, managed by Cesc Fàbregas, are currently leading the pursuit of Schjelderup.
Como are reportedly hoping to structure a deal as an initial loan with a mandatory purchase option, while Benfica are believed to value the Norwegian international at around £35 million.
Italian giants AC Milan have also been credited with interest, highlighting just how highly Schjelderup is regarded across Europe.
The winger remains under contract with Benfica until 2028, and his deal reportedly includes a substantial £86 million release clause. Although Benfica are unlikely to receive that figure, they are under little pressure to sell one of their most promising attacking players.
Comparisons to Erling Haaland
Schjelderup attracted significant attention during his teenage years, with sections of the media even describing him as the next Erling Haaland because of the excitement surrounding his emergence from Norwegian football.
While those comparisons inevitably raised expectations, Schjelderup has taken a different path in developing his career. Rather than relying purely on goalscoring, he has become known for his dribbling ability, close control, creativity and intelligence in wide attacking areas.
Although he still has plenty of room for improvement before reaching the level of Haaland, there is little doubt that he possesses considerable talent and remains one of Norway’s brightest young footballers.
Chelsea’s Current Wingers Face Increased Pressure
Chelsea’s reported pursuit of another left-sided attacker could have significant consequences for members of the current squad.
Both Alejandro Garnacho and Jamie Gittens have endured difficult debut seasons at Stamford Bridge.
Garnacho has struggled to consistently reproduce the form that made him one of England’s most exciting young attackers before his move to Chelsea. As a result, speculation has grown that the Argentine could be allowed to leave if a suitable offer arrives during the transfer window.
Gittens has also found life difficult in West London. The talented winger has shown flashes of quality but has been hindered by recurring hamstring injuries, limiting his ability to build momentum and establish himself in the starting lineup.
The arrival of another winger would inevitably increase competition for places and could push both players further down Alonso’s pecking order.
Alonso Building a More Competitive Squad
One of Alonso’s priorities since arriving at Chelsea has been increasing competition throughout the squad.
Rather than relying on a fixed starting eleven, the Spaniard wants quality options across every position, ensuring standards remain high throughout the season.
That philosophy explains Chelsea’s aggressive approach in the transfer market.
Adding Schjelderup would not necessarily signal the end for Garnacho or Gittens, but it would make earning regular minutes considerably more difficult.
For young players hoping to develop, increased competition can either accelerate improvement or reduce opportunities if they fail to impress.
Summer Could Bring Major Changes
With several weeks still remaining in the transfer window, Chelsea’s attacking department could yet undergo significant changes.
The club continues to pursue multiple targets while also assessing the futures of several current players as Alonso shapes the squad according to his tactical vision.
Whether Chelsea ultimately succeed in signing Andreas Schjelderup remains to be seen, particularly with competition from Como and AC Milan, but their reported interest highlights the club’s determination to strengthen every area of the team.
For Garnacho and Gittens, meanwhile, the message is becoming increasingly clear. If Chelsea continue adding quality in wide positions, both players may have to fight even harder for opportunities or begin considering their own futures before the new season gets underway.
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