Alonso has 'plan' for playing Rogers with Palmer

What the report says

BBC Sport reports that Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso says he has a clear approach for fitting new club-record signing Morgan Rogers into the same side as Cole Palmer. Rogers joined from Aston Villa last week in a £117m deal, described by the BBC as making him the most expensive British player in history. The 24-year-old midfielder is currently on holiday after England duty at the World Cup, while Chelsea have started pre-season preparations in Sydney.

According to the BBC, Alonso said Chelsea wanted a major addition in Rogers’ position and expects the England international to adjust quickly to the club, his team-mates and the system. Rogers, who had 10 goals and seven assists in 37 Premier League games for Aston Villa last season, has signed a six-year contract with an option for another year. Alonso also indicated he expects Rogers and Palmer, who are close friends, to combine effectively if Chelsea find the right balance in midfield and attack.

The report adds that Chelsea are expected to confirm a £52m move for Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix, while they have already added Geovany Quenda, Emmanuel Emegha and Marco Palestra. A move for Valentin Barco is also expected in the coming weeks. Those arrivals would leave Chelsea with a squad of nearly 40 players, meaning departures are likely before the transfer window closes.

The developments matter because Chelsea are again reshaping a large squad while trying to build a more settled and competitive team. Alonso told the BBC there may still be movement in the market, but said the club is working from a defined plan.