23 June 2026·By Paul Lindisfarne
Xabi Alonso will assess Mamadou Sarr during Chelsea's pre-season before deciding his future, with RB Leipzig already circling and a loan or permanent exit both under consideration.
Sarr's future at Chelsea will be determined during pre-season, with the new manager reserving judgement on the twenty-year-old centre-back until he has had the chance to assess him directly, according to [_Jeunes Footeux_.](https://www.jeunesfooteux.com/Mamadou-Sarr-deja-sur-le-depart-de-Chelsea-L-ex-du-RC-Strasbourg-convoite-en-Bundesliga_a80564.html)
RB Leipzig have already registered their interest in Sarr and are waiting on Chelsea's decision. Alonso, who begins his four-year contract on July 1, has not yet sanctioned a move, and Chelsea have delayed their final call as a result.
Sarr joined Chelsea from RC Strasbourg in June 2025 for the Club World Cup and was sent back on loan in August. He had been a regular under Liam Rosenior at the Ligue 1 side, making eighteen appearances, before Chelsea recalled him in the winter window — weeks after Rosenior himself had replaced Enzo Maresca at Stamford Bridge.
Despite the recall, Sarr made only six appearances for Chelsea, totalling 264 minutes. Regular football never materialised.
The France-born Senegal international is now facing a pivotal summer. Jeunes Footeux warns that he "can't afford to make the wrong choice" at this stage, as the decision on whether he leaves permanently, moves on loan, or stays to compete under Alonso will have significant consequences for his development.
If Leipzig or another suitor is to be satisfied, Chelsea must first decide whether to sanction a permanent sale or structure a loan with or without a purchase option. That decision rests with Alonso, who wants to see Sarr in training before committing to any outcome.
Leipzig are expected to remain patient while pre-season unfolds.