Chelsea have held internal discussions about bolstering their midfield for the upcoming January transfer window. The club's primary targets are Alex Scott from Bournemouth and Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace.
Following the sale of Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City, the London outfit has funds available for a sizeable transfer. However, they failed to secure a suitable replacement for the Argentine in the summer.
After the transfer window closed, Chelsea’s hierarchy seriously considered the possibility of signing free agent Georginio Wijnaldum. Ultimately, the club opted against a short-term fix, choosing instead to focus on younger talent.
According to sources:
Chelsea discussed several options. Wijnaldum’s name came up, but the hierarchy unanimously decided to wait until January to see what opportunities arise in the market. Scott and Wharton remain the priority targets.
Scott has long been viewed as one of Chelsea's main transfer priorities. Bournemouth rejected their approach last summer and made it clear that they aren't willing to sell the midfielder until 2027. Nevertheless, Chelsea are set to check in on the club’s position come January.
Wharton is also on the club's radar as an alternative. Chelsea highly rate the Crystal Palace midfielder and are considering making an offer in the winter. However, the club must weigh up whether to pursue Wharton in January or hold out for another attempt to secure Scott in a few months' time.
Simultaneously, Chelsea have decided against rekindling negotiations for Lamine Camara. The club is dissatisfied with the last-minute actions of Monaco, which resulted in the summer transfer of the Senegalese being called off. Furthermore, Liverpool are now showing serious interest in Camara.
As it stands, Scott and Wharton are being considered as the two primary options for Chelsea to significantly strengthen their midfield.