Xabi Alonso has 'plan' for Rogers and Palmer duo at Chelsea

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed he has a specific plan to integrate the club's record £117m signing, Morgan Rogers, into the squad alongside Cole Palmer. The 24-year-old, who joined from Aston Villa last week, is viewed as a vital addition to the team's attacking setup.

I have a plan. I have an idea. I can see them linking really well. We need to have a good mix. If we get that balance right and those special players in the right positions, with good control, then we will be more competitive with and without the ball. Xabi Alonso

Although Rogers is currently on holiday following his involvement in the World Cup and has yet to join the team's pre-season tour in Sydney, Alonso remains confident that the midfielder will not require much time to adapt to the club's system. The two England internationals have long shared a strong personal bond and have previously expressed a desire to play together at club level.

The Blues are also closing in on further squad reinforcements, including the expected £52m arrival of defender Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace. However, with the squad size approaching 40 players, Alonso admitted that the club must remain flexible and active in the transfer market, with several departures expected before the window closes.