Middlesbrough have turned up the heat in their summer hunt for a centre-back by enquiring about Chelsea academy product Alfie Gilchrist. The 21-year-old centre-back shone on a season-long loan at Sheffield United last year and is now being chased by a host of Championship clubs in the last year of his Chelsea deal.
Gilchrist played 32 games in all competitions for the Blades in 2024/25 and demonstrated his adaptability as a centre-back and right-back. First-team opportunities at Stamford Bridge have remained limited, and with Chelsea’s squad depth growing, the Blues now welcome offers — although a permanent transfer seems likely. New Boro head coach Rob Edwards is an admirer and Middlesbrough have been one of the earliest sides to make their interest known. Other clubs are likely to join them in the coming days.
Gilchrist on the radar after strong loan spell
Gilchrist’s form at Bramall Lane didn’t escape notice. Despite, a short mid-season falloff in minutes, he had a solid season and drew compliments for his combative approach, his tactical discipline, and his maturity both with and without the ball. Middlesbrough regard him as a shrewd, low-risk addition that can immediately stiffen Rob Edwards’ developing defence.
He also progressed to play senior football with Chelsea before this loan, getting a chance under Mauricio Pochettino. Chances are slender, but homegrown status and versatility will appeal to Championship clubs seeking to combine youth with top level know-how.
Chelsea must decide on long-term plans
Competition is still at a premium in defence, with Chelsea able to extend Gilchrist’s deal until 2026. Levi Colwill, Axel Disasi, Wesley Fofana, and even Trevoh Chalobah all sit ahead of Gilchrist in the pecking order, blocking his passage into the first team.
Chelsea could sell him now for a tidy fee and avoid losing him on a free next year. But Chelsea could still okay another loan if the right offer does not pan out. Now, with interest mounting, all attention shifts to whether Chelsea receive an offer — or else if Gilchrist’s next step is based on preseason outings.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
