Chelsea are exploring several defensive and midfield options as they seek to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming season. The club has expressed interest in signing John Stones, the free agent defender who left Manchester City this summer. Stones, an England international, played only 20 Premier League games over the last two seasons due to multiple injuries but showcased strong performances during England’s World Cup campaign.

In addition to Stones, Chelsea have been pursuing Crystal Palace centre back Maxence Lacroix. However, talks have yet to yield an agreement, largely due to Palace’s £60 million valuation of the French defender, which Chelsea have not met. Lacroix remains a key target as the Blues aim to bolster their defensive options, addressing a position that has lacked stability in recent campaigns.

Chelsea also made a £64 million bid for Alex Scott, the central midfielder currently at Bournemouth, but the offer was rejected. Scott, 22, who started for England in the Under-21 European Championship final victory over Germany last year, joined Bournemouth in 2023 from Bristol City for £25 million and has two years remaining on his contract. Despite Scott declining a new contract offer two months ago, Bournemouth has indicated they expect him to remain at the club for the foreseeable future.

Scott has attracted interest not only from Chelsea but also from Manchester United and Arsenal, reflecting his rising profile within English football. Chelsea’s pursuit of both defensive and midfield reinforcements highlights the club’s ongoing efforts to build a more consistent and competitive squad.