The Athletic reveal Chelsea’s priority position for summer 2026 window | OneFootball

Chelsea have made central midfield a priority for next summer due to the constant injury issues of Romeo Lavia according to The Athletic.

The Blues added reinforcements in the summer with Andrey Santos returning from his loan spell at Strasbourg, whilst Dario Essugo arrived from Sporting Lisbon.

Chelsea have some of the best midfield depth in the league, but have been unable to call upon it, with Essugo and Lavia both injured for the majority of the first half of the season.

Central midfield a priority in 2026 after Lavia injury issues

The Blues aren’t expected to be active in January, despite being linked with a number of midfielders including Dutch youngster Kees Smit.

It’s been reported Chelsea are looking to sign a midfielder next summer, and The Athletic have reported the Blues have made that position a priority due to Lavia’s injury issues.

Lavia has once again struggled with injury this season. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Lavia has made just 30 appearances for Chelsea since joining from Southampton in the summer of 2023, and is yet to complete a full 90 minutes for the club.

The Belgian has a lot of talent, and has shown his importance to the team when he’s featured, but that’s not been often enough.

Lavia is currently sidelined after picking up an injury against Qarabag in the Champions League last month, and Enzo Maresca is unsure when the 21-year-old will return to action.

Chelsea want to ease burden on Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo

Due to injuries there’s been a huge burden on Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo to stay fit and play every game.

More Stories / Latest News

The Athletic reveal Chelsea’s priority position for summer 2026 window

26th Dec 2025, 01:30pm

Report: Chelsea’s stance on Filip Jorgensen revealed, January window fast approaching

26th Dec 2025, 01:00pm

The Athletic name two players Chelsea are interested in ahead of January window

26th Dec 2025, 12:30pm

Chelsea reportedly want to ease the burden on the duo, but it’s unclear if they want to add more depth or if one of the current midfielders will leave next summer.

Lavia would obviously be a prime candidate due to his injury issues, but the Blues potentially cashing in on Andrey Santos also can’t be fully ruled out.