Chelsea are looking to make a statement signing, following Xabi Alonso‘s first press conference since being unveiled as manager.
While speaking to the media for the first time, Alonso confirmed Alejandro Garnacho is attracting attention from elsewhere, saying: “We have spoken to the sports director and there’s an interest from him, from another club, so let’s see how it develops.
“I hope it finishes in the best possible way for all parties.”
Should Garnacho depart, there may be space in the squad to sign a new winger, and Crysencio Summerville has emerged as a target, following West Ham United’s relegation from the Premier League.
However, the Netherlands international has now been joined on the shortlist by a Champions League star.
Chelsea eager to sign “one of the best LW’s in Europe”
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Chelsea have now stormed into contention to sign Paris Saint-Germain star Bradley Barcola, but there could be competition for his signature, with Arsenal and Liverpool also keen.
A deal would also be very expensive, considering PSG are demanding £128m. Crucially though, the reigning champions of Europe are prepared to sanction a departure.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
It may be important for Chelsea to improve their forward options this summer, with Garnacho potentially in line to leave, and Barcola would be a like-for-like replacement, as he also plays on the left-wing. The Argentinian only scored one Premier League goal during his debut campaign with the Blues. |
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Finances |
However, a £128m deal would make the Frenchman the third-most expensive signing in football history. For reference, current record signing is Moises Caicedo, who cost £115m. |
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Insight |
That said, it understandably costs a premium to sign players who have already proven themselves at the very highest level. The 23-year-old has picked up six goals and nine assists in 43 Champions League appearances over the past two seasons, with PSG being crowned champions two years in a row. |
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Impact |
Barcola could be a real statement signing for the Blues, especially considering they have missed out on European qualification. During the latter stages of the 2025-26 campaign, the likes of Marc Cucurella and Enzo Fernandez were deployed on the left-wing, so it is clear BlueCo need to strengthen in that area. |
Why Chelsea signing Bradley Barcola would be a major statement of intent
Chelsea are looking to rebuild, after finishing 10th last season. As such, should they be able to lure the France star to Stamford Bridge, they would be sending out a message to the rest of the Premier League.
The PSG star has been lauded as “one of the best LW’s in Europe” by scout Ben Mattinson, and he has maintained a remarkable goal and assist record during his time with the French champions.
Last season, he was their top scorer in Ligue 1, courtesy of finding the net 11 times in 29 matches, and he has amassed a total of 39 goals and 37 assists in 152 appearances for the club.
Garnacho, on the other hand, was unable to hold down a consistent place in the Chelsea starting XI last season, appearing for 1,268 minutes in the Premier League, and Barcola could be a major upgrade.
