Chelsea have identified a group of players they consider unavailable for transfer this summer as the club continues reshaping its squad ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Among those regarded as “untouchable” are academy graduate Josh Acheampong and Brazilian forward Joao Pedro. Others are Cole Palmer, Reece James, Estevao Willian, Moises Caicedo and Pedro Neto, who are viewed as key parts of the club’s long-term plans.
The description – ‘untouchable’ was previously used by former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho during his first spell at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea protect key players
The phrase gained prominence in December 2006 when Mourinho described several first-team stars as “untouchable” based on their performances rather than reputation.
At the time, he excluded striker Andriy Shevchenko from that category because of the Ukrainian’s struggles in front of goal.
“Sheva is not untouchable because of the way he is playing. I play the best players at the time,” Mourinho said.
“Claude Makelele is untouchable because of the way he plays. Michael Essien is untouchable because of the way he plays. Frank Lampard is untouchable because of the way he plays.
“It is not because I love them. It is because of the way they play. Michael Ballack is untouchable because of the way he plays. John Terry is untouchable, Ricardo Carvalho, Ashley Cole, Didier Drogba, they are untouchable.”
Goalkeeper Petr Cech was also regarded as one of Mourinho’s indispensable players during that period.
Blues assess goalkeeping options
Chelsea are also reviewing their goalkeeping department before the new campaign.
Filip Jorgensen is reportedly keen to leave Stamford Bridge after struggling for regular first-team football, while Robert Sanchez is expected to remain the club’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Despite Sanchez’s status, Chelsea are looking to strengthen their depth by recruiting an experienced third-choice goalkeeper.
The club has made enquiries about several veteran English goalkeepers who are currently without clubs, although no agreement has been reached.
Chelsea’s goalkeeping situation has been under close scrutiny in recent seasons, with frequent competition for the number one position and a large pool of goalkeepers under contract.
