“We need to be sensitive”

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has shared his thoughts on the future of forward Mykhailo Mudryk after his return to action. The Ukraine international has joined up with the Blues in Hong Kong for pre-season, having been unavailable for nearly two years due to a doping ban.

Alonso spoke at his press conference ahead of facing Serie A giants Juventus in Hong Kong, explaining the situation surrounding Mudryk. He pointed out the need to be calculated in dealing with the 25-year-old, who has multiple suitors lining up for his services.

“We are thrilled Misha could be with us. You can see his smile and how good it was to feel part of the team. We are happy that he is back with us in the team.

No decision made (on his future). We need to assess, he is a special player but it is a special case so we need to be sensitive”, he said.

Mykhailo Mudryk flew to Hong Kong alongside new signing Danny Welbeck, and the duo have joined the first-team training ahead of facing Juventus. The Ukraine international last played for the club in November 2024, scoring in the UEFA Conference League win over Heidenheim.

Chelsea have received multiple offers for Mudryk from within and outside England. Club legend and former manager Frank Lampard has been credited with interest in a loan deal, with his Coventry City side set to feature in the Premier League this season.

Mudryk spent his 20-month ban working privately with trainers to keep him in good shape. It remains to be seen if he is fit enough to play for Chelsea in any of their remaining pre-season matches.

Chelsea star targeted by Premier League rivals: Reports

Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson is a target for the Blues’ Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur this summer, as per reports. The Senegal international is back at the club after spending the 2025-26 season on loan at Bayern Munich.

According to Mail Sport, Tottenham Hotspur have joined Aston Villa in targeting the 25-year-old striker for a permanent move. Xabi Alonso’s side are prepared to let him leave if their valuation of £65 million is met by any of his suitors.

Nicolas Jackson joined the Blues in 2023, playing for two full seasons before heading to Germany to join Bayern Munich. He is one of six senior strikers presently at the club, with several of them expected to be sold in the next month.