Chelsea Eyeing Double Midfield Reinforcement Amid Injury Crisis and Long-Term Targets

Chelsea are still dealing with a significant void in midfield following Enzo Fernández's departure at the end of the transfer window and a long-term injury to Reece James, who is sidelined for the remainder of 2026. According to journalist Simon Phillips, the Blues plan to take an aggressive approach by signing two midfielders across the upcoming transfer windows. 

Due to James' recurring fitness issues, the club has ruled out selling Malo Gusto, whom manager Xabi Alonso has occasionally deployed in midfield as an emergency option. While names like Lamine Camara and Frenkie de Jong have been discussed, Bournemouth's Alex Scott has emerged as a primary target. Scott is set to enter the final year of his contract in summer 2027, though Chelsea will face fierce competition from Liverpool, managed by Scott's former boss Andoni Iraola.