Chelsea Faces Mass Exodus as Boehly Spending Spree Backfires
Chelsea is planning a significant squad overhaul this summer to fortify Mauricio Pochettino with a better squad ahead of next season, with as many as 11 players potentially leaving the club. This move comes after a disappointing season and the financial constraints imposed by Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
Big Spending, Big Problems
Under new ownership led by Todd Boehly, Chelsea splurged over £1 billion on players. However, this spending spree hasn’t translated to success on the pitch, with the Blues languishing in mid-table mediocrity. The club now faces the harsh reality of complying with the PSR regulations or risk points deductions according to Football.London.
Academy Graduates on the Chopping Block
The focus of the squad overhaul seems to be on academy graduates who haven’t quite cemented their place in the first team. These sales would be considered “pure profit” under PSR regulations and would free up funds for reinforcements.
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Conor Gallagher: Despite being a standout performer this season for Pochettino, Gallagher, with just over a year left on his contract, could be sold due to his high market value.
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Trevoh Chalobah: Deemed expendable by the club, Chalobah has struggled for consistent playing time and could be on his way out after a potential transfer to Bayern Munich fell through last season.
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Ian Maatsen (loan at Borussia Dortmund): Maatsen’s loan spell with Borussia Dortmund might turn permanent this summer.
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Armando Broja (loan at Fulham): After several loan stints, Broja could finally find a permanent home with reported interest from West Ham.
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Lewis Hall (loan at Newcastle): Hall’s loan move to Newcastle included an obligation to buy, meaning his departure is already confirmed.
These potential departures echo the exits of other academy graduates like Mason Mount, Tammy Abraham, and Callum Hudson-Odoi, who were previously sold to generate funds.
Other Departures on the Horizon
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Marc Cucurella: The high-priced summer arrival from Brighton hasn’t lived up to expectations, and Chelsea might struggle to recoup their investment if they decide to sell him.
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Malang Sarr: The high-earning defender hasn’t featured for the club since last season and is expected to leave on a free transfer.
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Thiago Silva: The veteran Brazilian defender’s contract expires in June, and he’s likely to call time on his Chelsea career.
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Loan Players: The futures of Romelu Lukaku, Kepa Arrizabalaga, and Hakim Ziyech, all currently on loan deals, appear bleak at Chelsea, and a permanent exit could be on the cards for the new Pochettino side.
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Chelsea v FC Saltzburg, UEFA Champions Leage game 2, Stamford Bridge, London, UK – 14th September 2022. Credit: Shutterstock
Rebuilding Under Pochettino
With a significant squad overhaul on the horizon, manager Mauricio Pochettino has a chance to reshape the team in his image.
The summer transfer window will be crucial for Chelsea’s ambitions to get back on track and compete for trophies again.
