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Xabi Alonso confirmed that Chelsea is close to executing its planned transfers. The coach is satisfied with the team's development but awaits the last few days of the window. He also explained his approach to managing a larger squad in a season without European football.

Chelsea's head coach Xabi Alonso has suggested that the club is nearing the completion of its plans for the summer transfer window. However, he hasn't dismissed the possibility of making further changes to the squad in the final days, emphasising that the process of forming a new team takes time.

Speaking about Chelsea's transfer endeavours, Alonso commented:

We are quite close to the plan we set out. We'll see how it all ends: whether we can fully realise it, if there are still tasks to be completed, or what we might not achieve.

Overall, I think we will have a good balance in the squad. We need to see how the next few days unfold. The team is gradually taking shape. This is a process that will require time. Right now, we are in a good position, and there are still a few days left.

Alonso was also asked how he intends to manage a larger squad given Chelsea's absence from European competitions this season.

The Spanish manager explained:

It’s important to understand and respect that all players are at different stages of their careers. Some are established names, while for others, this is their first season at a club like Chelsea or even their debut year in the Premier League. Everyone is at different levels.

The players understand this. It's all part of the team-building process. I don’t have a specific number of players that I need, but I have a clear vision of the squad. I think we will be close to that.