Cameron Smith
Enzo Maresca, Chelsea, 2024/25
© IMAGO
Chelsea could offload as many as five first-team players during the January transfer window as Enzo Maresca looks to trim down his squad at Stamford Bridge.
The Italian has enjoyed a sublime start to life in west London, guiding Chelsea to x wins in all competitions since he was appointed as Mauricio Pochettino’s successor back in July.
The Blues’ 2-1 win over Brentford on Sunday evening means they are now just two points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, although Arne Slot’s side do have a game in hand due to the Merseyside derby being postponed last weekend.
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Despite their impressive form, Chelsea are set to be extremely active in January, with a number of targets being lined up by Clearlake Capital ahead of the winter window.
However, the Blues are also expected to sanction several departures, and five players have reportedly been added to the transfer list as the west London giants attempt to reduce the size of Maresca’s first-team squad.
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Carney Chukwuemeka could leave Chelsea in January
© IMAGO - Carney Chukwuemeka could leave Chelsea in January
Chelsea’s January plans
The Mirror report that Chelsea will listen to loan offers for Carney Chukwuemeka and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall in January, but they may be required to pay a fraction of the duo’s wages due to their huge salaries.
Furthermore, Cesare Casadei is being pursued by La Liga outfit Real Betis, as per Fichajes, while Ben Chilwell is expected to depart after failing to secure an exit this summer.
Maresca informed the former England international to find a new club upon his arrival at Stamford Bridge, but Chilwell was unable to finalise a move away and he has only made one appearance so far this season.
The 27-year-old has been linked with a move to Manchester United for the past year, although Ruben Amorim’s side are also reportedly monitoring the likes of Milos Kerkez, Alphonso Davies, Rayan Ait-Nouri and Theo Hernandez ahead of 2025.