Chelsea plans to loan Aaron Anselmino this summer for development and rotation options.

Xabi Alonso’s Chelsea era will begin with major squad trims, as he inherits a large, loan-heavy roster and plans to reduce it once he takes office on July 1. With Chelsea likely to have around 40 players in senior training after players return from loans and World Cup duty, Alonso must streamline the squad since there will be no European competition to justify such depth. Notable futures are in flux: Marc Cucurella has left, Kendry Paez’s loan at River Plate may be cancelled and return to Chelsea, and Axel Disasi and Tyrique George are reportedly set for permanent sales. Filip Jorgensen has reportedly requested a transfer, while Aaron Anselmino’s situation remains uncertain.

Anselmino’s path at Chelsea has been turbulent. After being bought in 2024 and loan spells with Boca Juniors, Dortmund, and Strasbourg, Chelsea recalled him amid a disagreement with Dortmund. Despite limited playing time in 2025-26, Chelsea and Alonso plan to integrate Anselmino into pre-season to assess his future, aiming not to take a loss on the midfielder. Proponents highlight that Anselmino’s technical prowess and versatility could suit Alonso’s system, offering a playmaker presence with strong defensive attributes. However, his fitness—particularly hamstring injuries—remains a critical factor, making another loan or sale a more likely outcome if he cannot stay healthy.

Key takeaways:
– Alonso inherits a large Chelsea squad and will trim numbers after July 1 due to no European competition.
– Several players are linked to exits or returns, with Anselmino’s future under active review.
– Anselmino is viewed as a potential fit for Alonso’s system if injuries are managed, but a loan exit remains a strong possibility if form and fitness don’t improve.