Chelsea is already eyeing their top target for 2026: Morgan Rogers. The Aston Villa attacking midfielder is at the top of the Blues’ wishlist, according to TBR Football. Recruitment chief Joe Shields, who brought Rogers to Manchester City, wants to reunite with him at Stamford Bridge.
At just 23, Rogers is an England international and among the Premier League’s brightest young talents. Aston Villa made it clear last summer that he was off the market, even with a price tag of around €100m (£85m). Chelsea made a late move before the transfer window closed but ended up securing Facundo Buonanotte on loan from Brighton instead.
Chelsea’s 2026 Ambitions
Despite this setback, Stamford Bridge sources assert that Chelsea will return for Rogers in 2026. Journalist Graeme Bailey noted, “Morgan Rogers has always been Chelsea’s top midfield target. Joe Shields wants him, and the thought of him going elsewhere is ‘staggering’.” The strong connection between Shields, Rogers, and Cole Palmer could be crucial in this pursuit.
Rogers and Palmer, former teammates at City and in England’s youth teams, maintain a close friendship. “After every game, he’s the first to text me, especially if I’ve scored,” Rogers shared earlier this year. This bond could play a pivotal role in bringing Rogers to West London if Chelsea decides to make a serious move next year.
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