Chelsea move for Georginio Wijnaldum dismissed as Al-Ittihad remain alert

Chelsea will not sign former Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum, despite reports that the Dutchman could move to Stamford Bridge as a free agent after the summer transfer window closed.

The speculation suggested Chelsea were considering Wijnaldum as an alternative after failing to sign Senegal midfielder Lamine Camara from Monaco and following the reported sale of Argentina international Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City.

However, respected Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano categorically rejected the claims. Writing on his personal account on X, Romano said Chelsea would not bring in the 35-year-old midfielder.

🔵❌ Chelsea will not sign Georginio Wijnaldum.Club currently playing down all reports about the Dutch midfielder.pic.twitter.com/bSilxc29Ng

The clarification could provide a boost to Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad, who have also been linked with Wijnaldum during the current summer transfer window.

Al-Ittihad are looking for another midfielder and could complete a deal for Wijnaldum without paying a transfer fee. The player has been a free agent since the end of last season, when Al-Ettifaq decided not to renew his contract.

Wijnaldum would offer Al-Ittihad a player with experience of Saudi football, having spent three years with Al-Ettifaq between 2023 and 2026. That familiarity could make him an attractive option as the club continue to reshape their midfield.

The most prominent period of Wijnaldum’s career came at Liverpool, where he played between 2016 and 2021. During his time at Anfield, he established himself as an important part of the side before leaving the club.

Al-Ittihad have already strengthened their midfield by signing Rakan Kaabi from Al-Fayha and Senegal international Dion Lopy from Spanish club Almeria. Nevertheless, the Saudi club are still seeking another option in the position.

That search follows the departure of Brazilian midfielder Fabinho, whose contract expired at the end of last season. Al-Ittihad are also dealing with long-term injuries affecting Malian player Mamadou Doumbia and Saudi midfielder Hamed Al-Ghamdi.

Wijnaldum’s availability means he can join a new club without being restricted by the deadline for closing the transfer market. His current free-agent status followed Al-Ettifaq’s decision not to extend his stay, leaving him able to negotiate with clubs after the summer window ended.

For now, though, reports of a move to Chelsea have been ruled out, with Romano confirming that the London club are not planning to sign the former Liverpool player. That leaves Al-Ittihad as one of the clubs associated with Wijnaldum while they continue their search for midfield reinforcements.