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Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso could oversee the departure of four players as the club considers raising funds for a renewed attempt to sign Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott in January. Football London reported on Thursday, October 15, 2026, that the Blues may need to offload members of their squad to finance the potential transfer.
Chelsea remain interested in the 23-year-old England international after failing to agree on a deal with Bournemouth during the summer. The London club reportedly submitted three offers, including a bid worth £68 million, but Bournemouth rejected all of them.
The Cherries could reconsider their position during the winter window if Chelsea return with an offer approaching £100 million. However, Bournemouth’s willingness to sell may depend partly on their position in the Premier League, as losing a key midfielder could be difficult if they are battling relegation.
To create room for another major signing, Chelsea are reportedly considering the futures of Alejandro Garnacho, Jamie Gittens, Benoit Badiashile and Robert Sanchez, who may no longer be central to Alonso’s plans.
Garnacho has reportedly scored eight goals in 43 appearances across all competitions during his time at Stamford Bridge before moving to Aston Villa on loan. His temporary spell could become permanent next summer if the conditions attached to the agreement are met. The reported obligation-to-buy clause is worth £42.5 million, potentially providing Chelsea with a substantial financial boost.
Gittens, signed from Borussia Dortmund last summer for an initial £48.5 million, has struggled to establish himself consistently. He has scored once in 27 appearances, while competition from Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, Pedro Neto and Estevao could further restrict his opportunities. His current market value is reportedly estimated at £22 million by Transfermarkt.
Badiashile’s future is also uncertain following his loan move to Napoli for the remainder of the season. The Italian club reportedly has an option to sign the French defender permanently for £23 million. Despite making 71 appearances for Chelsea, he has struggled to secure a regular starting role.
Sanchez could be another departure after joining Como on loan on deadline day. Chelsea have reportedly brought in Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa, while Mike Penders remains part of their longer-term plans. Sanchez has reportedly served as backup to Jean Butez in Italy, with Transfermarkt valuing him at approximately £13 million.
Potential sales could strengthen Chelsea’s finances ahead of another attempt to sign Scott. However, any move will depend on Bournemouth’s demands, the funds Chelsea can raise and whether Alonso is prepared to lose several squad members to secure his preferred midfield target.