Chelsea are one of three clubs that can buy Cesc Fabregas out of his Como contract for a nominal fee if they ever want him as their manager. Italian reports claim the Spaniard has inserted a custom release clause valid only for Chelsea, Arsenal and Barcelona.
The trio represent the most important clubs of Fabregas’ illustrious playing career, which explains the nature of the provision. The 39-year-old is under contract with the Serie A side until June 2028, but his exact wages remain undisclosed. The clause, it is said, would allow any of the three clubs to avoid lengthy negotiations with Como.
Fabregas had a decorated spell at Stamford Bridge between 2014 and 2019, winning two Premier League titles, the FA Cup and the League Cup.
His coaching credentials have also blossomed at Lake Como, where he helped guide the club to a 10th-place finish after promotion. They finished an impressive fourth last season, thus qualifying for the Champions League.
But there is no suggestion that the Blues are about to pursue Fabregas, having given Xabi Alonso a four-year deal this summer. Widely viewed as the most likely suitor, Barcelona are reportedly weighing up succession options beyond the tenure of Hansi Flick.
Xabi Alonso’s turbulent start to Chelsea tenure
The Fabregas revelation comes as Xabi Alonso rides a patchy start to life as Chelsea boss, with the Blues sitting 10th in the Premier League. Chelsea have picked up seven points from their opening five league games: two wins, a draw, and two defeats.
Alonso made a good start, beating Fulham and Brighton, but both wins highlighted his team’s defensive weaknesses. Further setbacks against Arsenal and Brentford, and a 2-2 draw against Hull City, have increased the pressure on the Spaniard’s methods.
Chelsea shipped 12 goals in those five games – the worst defensive record in the division. The Blues travel to Bournemouth on October 10, looking to bounce back from a chastening 3-0 defeat at Brentford.