Chelsea are engaged in talks with Derby County for the transfer of defender Alfie Gilchrist, who is in the final year of his deal.
According to Mike McGrath, Chelsea and Derby County are in talks for the transfer of Alfie Gilchrist. The promising 21-year-old defender could return to the Championship with Derby County following a successful loan spell with Sheffield United last season.
Chelsea’s aggressive approach in the transfer market eventually renders many of their talented young stars as dispensable. The Blues have once again been chasing and signing key additions to their attack and defence, which could see some of their current talents depart the club.
One of those players might be 21-year-old Alfie Gilchrist, who visibly has no place in Enzo Maresca’s plans moving forward. The talented right-back has played 17 times for the Chelsea first team and spent last season on loan at Sheffield United.
Gilchrist was a key member for Chris Wilder’s side throughout the season, but an ankle injury around the end saw him miss the final games as well as the playoffs. Chelsea are ready to sell the defender following interest from Championship sides such as Derby County, Middlesbrough, Watford, and Blackburn Rovers.
As things stand, Gilchrist has entered the final year of his deal at Chelsea, which leaves the club no choice but to sell him on. The price point may be nominal given his contractual situation, as Derby County are the closest to getting a deal in place.
Chelsea in talks with Derby County
Chelsea and Derby County are engaged in talks over a deal for Gilchrist, with the 21-year-old showing no signs of opposing such a deal. Moving to the Championship may be the right career decision for the defender, given his experience there and the familiarity.
At Chelsea, he may not play games over current front runners Reece James and Malo Gusto, as he may have to move on for regular game time. There might be a time in the future when Gilchrist could potentially return to the top flight, although he will be focused on establishing himself as one of the best right-backs in the second division.