Chelsea are interested in signing Jordan Henderson, 36, from Brentford after he impressed since returning from Ajax in 2025. The midfielder could leave on a free transfer with a year left on his deal. They have also held positive talks with Brighton for Danny Welbeck, 35, who scored 13 goals last season. Brighton are open to a fair price with a year remaining on his contract.

These moves reflect a drastic shift in transfer policy under Blue Co and new manager Xabi Alonso. After hoarding young talent with mixed results, Chelsea are prioritising experienced, physically imposing players. They have already signed Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa for £117m and are close to signing Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace.

Analysis from Sky Sports' Callum Bishop notes the Welbeck move adds vital experience to a striker group averaging 23 years old with just 269 combined Premier League appearances. Welbeck alone has 400 appearances and 90 goals. The Henderson pursuit is surprising given Alonso already has Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez, but signals a need for immediate leadership.