The new era is underway at Chelsea, as Blues fans follow Xabi Alonso’s troops in action during pre-season. However, alongside watching showings against the likes of Western Sydney Wanderers and Spurs, many supporters are turning their attention towards the Blues’ fortunes in the virtual world thanks to games like Football Manager 26.
FM26 is Back With a Bang
A long-running series football fans adore, the latest instalment’s new Unity engine has added another layer of intrigue to proceedings. Additionally, the game has experienced a tactical evolution due to the emergence of in possession and out of possession shapes. As a result, virtual managers have to recruit accordingly by acquiring the services of players who fit into their systems.
87 Pts & a Cup Double: Conte’s FM26 Chelsea 3-4-3 Tactic 👇 pic.twitter.com/HMA6hOUpdV
— FM Blog – Football Manager Community (@fmbIog) April 7, 2026
It seems fans love exploring a range of offerings associated with the beautiful game, from EA Sports FC 26’s Ultimate Team aspect, to playing slingo slots online with a football theme like Slingoooal! Shootout. Now with FM26, embarking on a Chelsea save in FM26 is on the cards for many fans this season. For Blues managers, there are also some tempting moves to make in the Premier League, with these proven top-flight players being capable of settling in with ease.
With that in mind, below we highlight some viable Premier League targets to bring into your squad, although it’s worth noting that domestic transfers don’t always come cheap. Still, if you’re after signings who know the division, then it’s a safe strategy to employ.
Jan Paul van Hecke is a Solid Defender
In the same way Chelsea’s backline could do with strengthening this summer, it’s in need of some attention in the game. The Blues have conducted numerous deals with Brighton over the years, and while the Seagulls won’t want to lose Jan Paul van Hecke, the new Spurs signing is worth mulling over in the game. The Dutchman can be acquired for around £75 million if you get the timing right.
Cristian Romero is a Good Alternative
If Jan Paul van Hecke is out of reach for whatever reason, then Cristian Romero is a good alternative. The Argentine is Spurs’ most experienced central defender, which is why the North London club will be reluctant to offload him. Still, should you offer upwards of £100 million, then you’ll certainly test their resolve.
🚨🇦🇷 Cuti Romero will 100% LEAVE Spurs this summer, story from last week confirmed.
Inter working on possible deal as direct talks with player’s camp will follow soon, as revealed last week.
Barça consider Romero as option only in case of CB exits. pic.twitter.com/TEozPBiNfL
— Spatial Sports (@spatialsports) July 22, 2026
Mohamed Salah Could Become an Option
In the same way Mohamed Salah has departed Liverpool for pastures new in the real world, he could also become available in Football Manager 26. He is under contract until June 30, 2027 in the game, but if you’re looking to make a signing at the end of that period, then the veteran’s return to Stamford Bridge for a season or two could catapult your Blues side into title contention.
Jean-Philippe Mateta is a Reliable Goal-Getter
Chelsea need to add more goals to the team, and while his age might put some managers off, Jean-Philippe Mateta knows where the net is. The 29-year-old would slot perfectly into Chelsea’s attacking lineup and he wouldn’t cost an arm and a leg either. Some FM managers have snapped the Frenchman up for as little as £50 million.
Other options include Daniel Munoz, Omar Marmoush, Marc Guehi, Rodri, Martin Odegaard, Sandro Tonali, and Kai Havertz.
