Chelsea is gearing up for a significant January overhaul, with manager Enzo Maresca set to make bold moves in the transfer market.
After years of aggressive player acquisitions, the Blues’ squad remains bloated, leaving several players sidelined from first-team action.
Among the biggest names on the chopping block is England international Ben Chilwell. The left-back, who has only managed a single senior appearance this season in the Carabao Cup against Barrow, is set for an exit.
While efforts to offload Chilwell in the summer fell through, the club and the player are now pushing for a permanent move. Chilwell’s contract runs until 2027, but a mutual agreement appears imminent.
Another player likely to depart is 21-year-old Carney Chukwuemeka, who hasn’t featured in the Premier League this season.
Limited to appearances in the Carabao Cup and Conference League, Chukwuemeka has struggled to secure a spot under Maresca’s leadership.
Despite Chelsea’s £40 million release clause for the midfielder, the valuation might deter potential suitors, given his minimal game time over the past two seasons.
Additionally, young talents Harvey Vale and Alex Matos are up for permanent transfers, while Cesare Casadei is expected to leave on loan.
Casadei, who impressed during his loan spell at Leicester City under Maresca last season, has yet to feature in the Premier League this term. While Chelsea sees potential in the Italian midfielder, loan moves to clubs like Feyenoord or Monza are being considered to facilitate his development.
Maresca recently commented on the club’s plans, noting that decisions would be finalized after their upcoming fixtures against Everton, Fulham, and Ipswich.
With Chelsea securing mixed results in those games, January’s transfer window promises to be a crucial period for reshaping the squad.
As Chelsea fans brace for change, the focus remains on balancing the squad and providing opportunities for players more aligned with Maresca’s vision.