Chelsea target Bernardo Silva as Alonso prepares for summer overhaul
Reports indicate the Blues are pursuing the Manchester City midfielder on a free transfer, joining a list of European suitors including Barcelona and Juventus.
Chelsea have expressed interest in signing Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva, who is reportedly set to leave the club at the end of the season. According to Spanish publication Marca, the Portuguese international is available on a free transfer and is also being pursued by Barcelona, Juventus, AC Milan, and Atletico Madrid. Silva has scored 77 goals and provided 76 assists in 459 appearances for City.
The potential move comes as Chelsea undergo a significant managerial transition. Xabi Alonso was appointed as the new manager on a four-year contract, which officially commences on 1 July 2026. He will replace interim manager Calum McFarlane, who is set to serve as caretaker for the final two matches of the season against Tottenham and Sunderland. Alonso’s appointment follows the sacking of Liam Rosenior less than a month ago.
Co-owner Behdad Eghbali has indicated that the club’s youth-focused model will be tweaked this summer to accommodate new talent. Reports suggest Chelsea are in the market for a centre-back, another midfielder, and an attacker, with a specific focus on starting quality players and those with proven Premier League experience. Alonso is reportedly to have a say in transfer decisions.
Silva, 31, is expected to play his final game for Manchester City against Aston Villa on Sunday. The report states he has "decided to leave," though this has not been officially confirmed by Manchester City or the player. The Blues are believed to view Silva as a player who would bring quality, leadership, and a winning mentality to a squad that suffered a defeat in the FA Cup final against City earlier this season.
Alonso described the Chelsea project as "beautiful" during a brief interview in Spain. His arrival has already sparked activity, with Paul Winstanley and Chelsea directors spotted in Madrid alongside the new manager. The 44-year-old, who previously won the Champions League twice as a player, is expected to oversee the squad's reinforcements as the club looks to rebuild after recent setbacks.
