Chelsea are preparing a huge summer clear out of their underperforming squad with as many as 15 players set to leave west London at the end of the season.
The Blues have endured a disappointing campaign under head coach Mauricio Pochettino and sit 11th in the Premier League table ahead of Monday night’s fixture with Newcastle at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea’s dismal domestic campaign has come despite around £1bn of investment in new players in recent transfer windows, including a spend in excess of £400m last summer.
The club’s chaotic approach to the transfer market has left Chelsea with an expensively assembled and underperforming squad, one that looks set to be significantly reduced ahead of what is expected to be another campaign without European football next season.
Football.London are reporting that up to 15 players could be allowed to move on in another exodus, after 18 first-team players departed last summer.
Permanent exits will be sought for several names currently out on loan, including Romelu Lukaku, Hakim Ziyech, Ian Maatsen and Kepa Arrizabalaga.
David Datro Fofana – currently on loan at Burnley – Lewis Hall, and Armando Broja could also leave permanently after spending the current campaign at other clubs.
Thiago Silva’s contract appears unlikely to be renewed with the centre-back set to turn 40 in September, while Raheem Sterling and Marc Cucucrella could be sold after underwhelming since high-profile moves to Chelsea.
Elsewhere, Trevoh Chalobah, Carney Chukwuemeka and Malang Sarr will be available for transfer after failing to force a route in Pochettino’s plans.
Offers could also be listened to for Conor Gallagher, whose contract at Chelsea expires in 2025. The England midfielder has played a prominent role during the current campaign but is yet to agree a new deal with the Blues. Tottenham have been strongly linked with signing the 24-year-old, who could command a fee of around £50m to bring in funds for new signings.
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