Chelsea have endured a difficult start to the 2026/27 campaign, with Xabi Alonso facing plenty of questions about his side’s performances.
The Blues have struggled to find consistency, while defensive issues and concerns over their midfield options have left the new manager with plenty of work to do.
Losing Enzo Fernández to Manchester City over the summer has only added to those problems, leaving Chelsea needing to find a suitable replacement for the Argentine.
The club are now considering their options ahead of the January transfer window, with a proven European midfielder potentially available if his situation at Barcelona does not improve.
Chelsea Monitoring Frenkie de Jong
According to Spanish outlet SPORT, Chelsea are keeping a close eye on Frenkie de Jong as they assess whether an opportunity could emerge to bring the Dutch international to Stamford Bridge.
The Barcelona midfielder has reportedly found himself facing an uncertain future at the Catalan club, with his place in the starting XI no longer guaranteed. After spending several months recovering from a knee injury, the 29-year-old is working towards a return to full fitness, but competition for places could make it difficult for him to immediately reclaim his position.
Barcelona are expected to assess De Jong’s involvement and progress before deciding whether his future should be reconsidered during the winter transfer window. Chelsea, meanwhile, are reportedly prepared to monitor the situation and could explore a move if the midfielder becomes available.
De Jong – once described as “professional” by former Barca star Phillip Cocu – has been on the radar of several major clubs throughout his career, having established himself as an important figure at Barcelona since joining from Ajax in 2019. His ability to dictate possession, progress the ball through midfield and create opportunities could make him an attractive option for Alonso.
Chelsea are particularly in need of those qualities following Fernández’s departure to Manchester City. Although Romeo Lavia has made an encouraging start to the season, his previous injury problems remain a concern, while other midfield options have yet to establish themselves consistently.
De Jong could offer the Blues valuable experience and technical quality alongside Moisés Caicedo and Lavia. However, any potential deal will depend on Barcelona’s willingness to negotiate and whether the Dutchman can regain his place once fully fit.
For now, Chelsea are understood to be monitoring developments rather than pushing for an immediate transfer. But if De Jong’s position at Barcelona remains uncertain, the Blues could have an opportunity to strengthen their midfield in January.
