Chelsea chiefs are determined to sell a left-back when the transfer window reopens as they look to raise extra funds for another summer spree.
It’s recognised at Stamford Bridge that they are bloated in the left full-back and want to offload one of Marcos Alonso or Emerson Palmieri.
Ben Chilwell, signed for £50million from Leicester last summer, has firmly established himself as Thomas Tuchel’s first-choice left-back, despite Alonso getting his opportunity early in the German manager’s reign.
There is interest in Palmieri from Serie A’s biggest clubs but, according to Goal, a move is unlikely to happen before the European Championship.
Palmieri is expected to play a big part in Italy’s squad and could effectively put himself in the shop window.
Both left-backs’ contracts expire in 2022 but there is an option to extend them until 2023.
It’s thought Alonso, 30, will be tougher to shift because he has a significantly larger salary.
Sales are unlikely to stop in the left-back role. A £40million price tag has been slapped on Tammy Abraham’s head, while Olivier Giroud is set to leave on a free transfer.
A superstar striker is top of their list, with Erling Haaland and Romelu Lukaku both being considered.
However, they will face serious competition from Manchester City should either become available.
Abraham could stay if no serious offer comes Chelsea’s way – with West Ham, Leicester and Aston Villa among the clubs linked.
Chelsea hope to raise the best part of £100m by cashing in on loanees they’ve placed on the transfer list, with Fikayo Tomori – on loan at AC Milan – set to raise £26m alone.
For more stories like this, check our sport page.
Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Share this with