Chelsea Transfer Talks for Simons-Nkunku Swap Near Uncertainty Amid Squad Needs

Chelsea enters the 2025-26 season with optimism following a strong finish to the previous campaign and successful preseason friendlies, contrasting with last year's struggles. The club has made meaningful squad upgrades, addressed key issues, and retained their manager, positioning themselves as contenders for major trophies. Chelsea is actively pursuing a swap deal with RB Leipzig involving Xavi Simons and Christopher Nkunku, aiming to strengthen their attack while offloading players like Nkunku to balance finances. However, the Simons transfer faces delays due to financial complications, including a collapsed sale and an injury to a key defender, prompting Chelsea to prioritize defensive reinforcements. Meanwhile, AC Milan ended their preseason with a heavy loss to Chelsea, highlighting their defensive vulnerabilities after potential departures, and their uncertainty about squad depth at center-back. Overall, Chelsea appears more prepared and strategically focused this summer, though some transfer dealings remain in flux.