Published Aug 11, 2026, 7:00 PM GMT+1

Emilio is an experienced football journalist who has worked at Football FanCast for over six years, specialising in transfer analysis, Premier League reporting and the business of football.
 

After graduating with first-class honours from the University of Central Lancashire in 2019, it didn't take long for Emilio to begin his journalism career at Snack Media, now Valnet.
 

Emilio has a particular interest in football finance, recruitment and the business behind the modern game. In his spare time, you can find Emilio travelling the world, or even in a boxing ring.

The Blues have been made aware that Myles Lewis-Skelly may be available following Bruno Guimarães' £75 million arrival in north London.

That is an intriguing development, but it is not yet a transfer battle.

The Guardian reports that Chelsea have been informed of the 19-year-old's situation, while The Times says they have been sounded out over a possible move, with Alonso seemingly being offered the chance to do a deal for the Hale End sensation.

Lewis-Skelly would still tick plenty of Chelsea boxes.

He is young, English and capable of playing at left-back or in midfield. He also finished last season strongly enough to start Arsenal's Champions League final defeat to PSG despite a season of limited starts.

Arsenal's decision to add Guimaraes has made an already crowded midfield even tighter.

Declan Rice, captain Martin Ødegaard, Mikel Merino and Martín Zubimendi are all established options, which could leave Lewis-Skelly wondering how often he will play.

Chelsea can offer a different route, although their own squad is hardly short of midfielders.

The club's need at left-back is clearer after Marc Cucurella's move to Real Madrid, although Jorrel Hato and new signing Marco Palestra remain options. Lewis-Skelly's versatility there would offer Alonso cover in two important areas across the squad.

Lewis-Skelly is not the only Arsenal midfielder now being linked with the Blues, though.

Zubimendi has also emerged as a player of interest after an impressive first year in England.

The Spain international joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad last summer and quickly looked at home in Mikel Arteta's side. His presence and ability in midfield helped the Gunners win the Premier League title and reach the Champions League final.

There is an obvious connection with Alonso, who coached Zubimendi while in charge of Real Sociedad B.

Chelsea reporter Simon Phillips recently claimed the new Blues boss is a major admirer and has communicated that view to the club.

Estadio Deportivo backs other reports that Arsenal have placed a minimum £77 million valuation on Zubimendi, following interest from Chelsea and Real Madrid.

The Spanish outlet adds that Arsenal do not want to lose the 27-year-old despite bringing in Guimaraes. Zubimendi is contracted until 2030, leaving the champions in a powerful position.

That price looks designed to shut the door rather than invite negotiations.

Chelsea have spent heavily again and would also need to convince Arsenal to strengthen a London rival. No formal Blues offer has been reported just yet, while Madrid provide serious competition if the player becomes available.

Alonso's admiration makes the story worth watching, especially with Arsenal reshaping their midfield.

For now, though, both Lewis-Skelly and Zubimendi appear to be opportunities Chelsea are monitoring rather than deals close to being done.