Xabi Alonso gives transfer update & names Chelsea star who has impressed him most

Both players appear to be settling into life at Stamford Bridge remarkably quickly.

Chelsea have also enjoyed another productive transfer window when it comes to generating significant fees from players no longer wanted at the club.

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Nicolas Jackson and Liam Delap have already departed, while Enzo Fernandez could also be heading for the exit amid growing uncertainty over his future.

Speaking before Sunday’s meeting with Brighton, Alonso said: “We are quite close to the plan we had. We will see where we finish, if it’s fully executed or there are things still to be done or things we couldn’t do.

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“But for sure I think overall the balance of what we have is going to be good. We have to see how the last few days develop.

“But so far the team is coming together. It is a process that will take time. We are in a good position, with a few more days to see.”

Welbeck found the net first in Chelsea’s Carabao Cup victory over Luton Town on Thursday evening, although he is not expected to be included in the starting XI against his former side on Sunday.

Nevertheless, Alonso will be pleased to have Welbeck on his side rather than facing him, particularly given the striker’s impressive record against Chelsea.

The Brighton forward has registered five goals and two assists in eight appearances against the Blues.

Asked about Welbeck’s record, Alonso laughed before saying: “I am aware (of his record) and I am happy he is with us.

“He has many qualities. As a player you see how intelligent he is. He links well.

“Outside the box he is able to combine, inside the box he is very intelligent to be in the right place. We have seen it tonight.

“On a daily basis he is a great influence for the rest of the players. He trains really hard.

“He is raising all the standards in training and that is something we think is very important.”

However, Alonso’s recruitment has not focused solely on experienced players. He also appears ready to give academy graduate Josh Acheampong a genuine opportunity in defence.

Acheampong started against both Fulham and Luton, featuring in different tactical systems, and has arguably been Chelsea’s standout central defender across the two matches.

Having previously been linked with a loan departure, the youngster now appears increasingly likely to remain at Stamford Bridge and enjoy a breakthrough campaign under Alonso.

The Spanish manager added: “For me when Josh plays with confidence, with aggression, he has a lot of good attributes for a modern defender.

“He can play in different positions, he is good with the ball, he understands the game.

“I have seen progression in these few weeks that we have been together and he has played very solid games against Fulham and Luton. We are very happy he is felling this way.

“We need to help him. There will be different moments in the season for sure because we are going to have competition in all positions.”