Chelsea appear to have made a decision over whether to dip into the free-agent market after losing Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City on deadline day.
The Blues saw their midfield plans disrupted by the British-record departure, with Fernandez reuniting with former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca at City.
Chelsea had been searching for a replacement, but moves for Monaco’s Lamine Camara and Roma’s Manu Koné both fell through.
They have also been linked with a familiar free agent, although the club now appears to have settled on a different approach.
Chelsea Make Wijnaldum Decision
Chelsea have considered Georginio Wijnaldum but are expected to wait until January before making any major midfield additions.
According to Foot Mercato, the 35-year-old became an option after the club’s deadline-day plans collapsed, although Chelsea officials have played down reports of an imminent move to Stamford Bridge.
Wijnaldum’s experience could appeal to Xabi Alonso, particularly after Chelsea added another veteran midfielder in Jordan Henderson this summer. The former Liverpool star has also played for Newcastle, PSG and Al-Ettifaq.
However, Chelsea currently look ready to trust their existing midfield options rather than rush into a free-agent signing.
Wijnaldum, previously described as “perfect” by former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, may therefore have to wait for another opportunity as the Blues focus on January.
