Home » Football » Premier League

Chelsea agreed to Cole Palmer’s transfer demand but Xabi Alonso has been left short

After a change of approach in the summer transfer window, a lot of people were expecting a drastic improvement from Chelsea this season under new manager Xabi Alonso…

By Bobby Vincent · Football London

Published: Tuesday, 10 November 2026 at 12:19 PM

Key Things to Know

Football London argues Chelsea accommodated Cole Palmer's transfer requests but manager Alonso remains short of key squad profiles.
Chelsea suffered a 1-0 away defeat against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.
The club signed experienced players including Danny Welbeck, Jordan Henderson, Emi Martinez, and £52 million defender Maxence Lacroix.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Bobby Vincent writes for Football London that Chelsea supported Cole Palmer's desire for experienced signings, but manager Alonso still appears short of necessary profiles. Despite bringing in veteran players like Jordan Henderson, Danny Welbeck, and £52 million defender Maxence Lacroix, Chelsea suffered a 1-0 defeat against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light, leaving Alonso under scrutiny from supporters.

Vincent argues that the squad culture has yet to fully shift despite the adjusted transfer policy. With injuries to Lacroix and Josh Acheampong, Chelsea struggled defensively against Sunderland's Brian Brobbey, marking the club's third away defeat in five Premier League matches.

Read the full article on Football London

Chelsea agreed to Cole Palmer’s transfer demand but Xabi Alonso has been left short

More Premier League News

Never Miss a Sports Update