Chelsea’s controversial transfer strategy is set to change – here’s why

FootballBusiness & Finance
17 Apr 2026 • 5:41 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Chelsea’s controversial transfer strategy is set to change – here’s why

  • Chelsea co-owner Behdad Eghbali has announced a significant shift in the club's transfer strategy, planning to target more "ready-made" players alongside their existing focus on young talent.
  • This change is a response to growing dissent among supporters, who have voiced an "erosion of trust" with the owners due to inconsistent results and a perceived lack of clear direction.
  • Eghbali admitted the need to evolve the project by adding experienced players to achieve greater consistency and elevate the club's performance.
  • The club reported record pre-tax losses of £262.4m for the last financial year, having spent around £1.5bn on transfers since the new ownership group took over in 2022.
  • Eghbali also expressed regret over the mid-season departure of Enzo Maresca, acknowledging its "negative impact" on the team's season.

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