Chelsea’s relentless transfer activity under Todd Boehly continues to raise questions, with one of their summer signings already tipped to depart less than six months after joining.
The Blues spent over £200m during the summer transfer window, but while some signings have flourished—such as £54m star Pedro Neto—others have struggled to make an impact. Among them is Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, who arrived from Leicester City for £30m but has seen limited action under manager Enzo Maresca.
The 25-year-old midfielder played a crucial role in helping Maresca’s Leicester City secure the Championship title last season, yet his transition to life at Stamford Bridge has been far from smooth. Dewsbury-Hall has not started a single Premier League match this season, prompting former Chelsea midfielder Emmanuel Petit to predict a potential loan move for the player.
Speaking to Casino Hawks, Petit compared Dewsbury-Hall’s plight to Danny Drinkwater’s disastrous spell at Chelsea. The Blues spent £35m to sign Drinkwater from Leicester in 2017, but the midfielder managed just 23 appearances in a five-year stint marred by injuries and loan moves.
“Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall looks like the new Danny Drinkwater at Chelsea,” Petit remarked. “He spent so much time on the bench and ended up going out on loan. That could well happen again with Dewsbury-Hall.
“If I was a footballer being targeted by Chelsea, I’d be very, very careful about making my decision. They’ve spent so much money on young talent that they practically have two or three teams in the dressing room.
“You need to know if the board and the manager truly want you. Otherwise, you’ll end up on the bench, then the stands, and eventually out of the club. It’s a big risk for your career.”
While Dewsbury-Hall’s future at Chelsea appears uncertain, Petit is far more optimistic about the impact of Pedro Neto. The former Wolves winger has emerged as a standout performer for Chelsea this season, earning praise for his contributions on the left flank.
“Pedro Neto could be the signing of the season,” Petit added. “Step by step, he’s shown his qualities and talent. He’s taken advantage of opportunities where others have struggled, and that’s great for Chelsea.
“His confidence is growing, and while he needs to improve his goal and assist numbers, he’s often Chelsea’s main attacking threat. Enzo Maresca should be very pleased with his performances.”
Chelsea’s recent 2-1 victory over Leicester City at the King Power Stadium underlines their strong start to the season. Despite doubts about their prospects, the Blues sit third in the Premier League table after 12 games, level on points with Arsenal.
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