Jordan Henderson is on the verge of joining Chelsea after Brentford FC granted the midfielder permission to terminate his contract one year ahead of schedule. The 36-year-old former Liverpool player is reportedly in advanced talks with Chelsea, where he could add significant experience to manager Xabi Alonso's squad.
Chelsea's transfer strategy appears to be shifting towards experienced players, with Henderson's potential arrival aligning with this new approach. The club is also reportedly close to signing 35-year-old striker Danny Welbeck, who is set to undergo a medical and potentially join the team's pre-season tour in Hong Kong. The transfer fees for both Henderson and Welbeck have not been disclosed by either club.
Alonso, whose squad is currently in Sydney for pre-season, is said to value a balanced team composition. Henderson and Welbeck would provide the maturity he seeks. Previously, Chelsea had targeted Granit Xhaka, but Sunderland reportedly refused to sell their captain. Talks are also ongoing for John Stones with Inter Milan.
In other transfer news, Chelsea is nearing the confirmed signing of 26-year-old Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace for £52 million. The club has also already acquired Morgan Rogers for £117 million from Aston Villa.