News

The five best free transfers Chelsea can make next summer, including return of club legend

Add as preferred source on Google

Todd Boehly has made opportunistic signings a key part of his regime since taking over as Chelsea owner back in 2023.

The Blues have not been afraid to take a chance on signing players for cheap from their top rivals, shown by a deal to bring in Jadon Sancho on loan for the last campaign.

Despite that transfer not working out quite as hoped, Chelsea haven’t pivoted away from the idea, and are currently benefitting from the strong start made by Alejandro Garnacho after bringing him in from Manchester United.

Would Endrick be a good signing for Chelsea?

The free agent market is set to be absolutely stacked this summer, and there are plenty of players whose contracts are set to expire who would greatly strengthen the squad.

The Chelsea Chronicle have listed five players who Boehly should be looking to bring in at the end of the season that would not cost them a transfer fee.

Todd Boehly looks on during Chelsea v Crystal Palace - Premier League
Photo by Vince Mignott/MB Media/Getty Images

The best five free agents Chelsea can sign this summer

Mike Maignan

Many believe Chelsea really need to strengthen their goalkeeper position, and they almost brought in Mike Maignan before their Club World Cup exploits.

Despite staying at AC Milan, it looks as if the Frenchman is not set to sign a new deal with the Serie A club, leaving him available to sign for free.

Chelsea have been tipped as the favourites to sign Maignan, bringing some much-needed experience to the young first team squad.

Marc Guehi

Former Chelsea defender Marc Guehi certainly needed a move away from Stamford Bridge to realise his potential in the Premier League.

Since then, he has become Crystal Palace captain and a key part of the England leadership group under Thomas Tuchel.

Liverpool were very close to signing Guehi over the summer, and will still be seen as the favourites to sign him for free at the end of the season.

Ibrahima Konate

If Liverpool do bring in Guehi, there is a chance that Ibrahima Konate looks elsewhere for the club he plays for from the 2026/27 season onwards.

The Frenchman is not currently enjoying his best season, however he is falling victim of the Premier League champions not living up to their standards this season.

Chelsea have been linked with Konate in the past, and experience of winning the Premier League is something that very few in the current squad have.

Antonio Rudiger during Chelsea vs Bournemouth
Photo by Robin Jones – AFC Bournemouth/AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images

Antonio Rudiger

If Boehly wants to make a signing which will get the majority of Chelsea fans on board, Antonio Rudiger would be the number one option.

The German was a very popular member of the Blues squad when he was here, and has retained his place as one of the best in the world at Real Madrid.

The relationship still seems very strong between both parties, and Chelsea have the chance to fill the Thiago Silva-shaped hole since his departure in 2024.

Dayot Upamecano

Bayern Munich centre-back Dayot Upamecano is another player who is set to be available for free at the end of the season.

According to Transfermarkt, the Frenchman is the most valuable free agent available for the Blues this summer, something which will appeal to the Chelsea ownership in itself.