Chelsea explored move for Fulham midfielder Berge

What the report says

Chelsea looked into a late move for Fulham midfielder Sander Berge during the final days of the summer transfer window, according to BBC Sport Football. The interest came as Chelsea were trying to add a central midfielder before Enzo Fernandez's expected departure to Manchester City, but no deal was completed.

BBC Sport reported that Berge was one of several options considered by Chelsea, although the club did not submit a formal bid. Fulham viewed the Norway international as not for sale. Berge, 28, joined Fulham from Burnley in 2023 and has since become an important part of their side, making 78 appearances.

The report adds that Chelsea's deadline-day focus shifted to Monaco's Lamine Camara and Roma's Manu Kone, but an attempted deal for Camara fell through late on. Chelsea ultimately sold Fernandez for £125m without bringing in a direct replacement, leaving the squad short of specialist midfield cover.

The situation underlines a likely need for midfield reinforcements in the next transfer window. BBC Sport noted that Chelsea may revisit the issue in January, with Bournemouth's Alex Scott among players previously linked. The article also said injuries have highlighted the shortage, with manager Xabi Alonso finishing Sunday's loss to Arsenal using defenders Reece James and Malo Gusto in central midfield.