Chelsea is reportedly considering free agent defender John Stones as a potential transfer option. The 32-year-old is seeking a new club after his contract with Manchester City expired.

Chelsea aims to sign players with immediate impact for Xabi Alonso's first season. They are looking for a physically imposing centre-back with Premier League experience. The club has generated around £130m from sales and anticipates further departures from its defensive ranks, including Trevoh Chalobah, Benoit Badiashile, Malo Gusto, and Axel Disasi.

Additionally, Chelsea is in talks with Crystal Palace regarding defender Maxence Lacroix. Palace is seeking over £55m for the player, a sum exceeding Tottenham's acquisition fee for Jan Paul van Hecke. Despite the high price, Chelsea and Palace have a history of successful player transfers between them.