Enzo Maresca in a Chelsea training jersey with Todd Boehly included in a circular inset
Credit: Hasan Karim - Breaking Media/Getty Images
James Murray
Wed 27 August 2025 17:53, UK
Chelsea are one of multiple Premier League sides laying the groundwork to sell players to Saudi Pro League clubs before the transfer window closes, sources have told Football Insider.
The Blues have spent heavily again this summer as Enzo Maresca looks to build on his successful opening campaign at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea have spent around £240million on the signings of Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens, Jorrel Hato, Liam Delap, Estavao, Dario Essugo, Mamadou Sarr and Kendry Paez.
However, the west London club are now largely focusing on outgoings as they look to trim their squad before the transfer window closes on 1 September.
Sources say Chelsea are looking to agree deals for their out-of-favour stars with Saudi clubs, with some of their Premier League rivals also hoping to conclude similar transfers.
Enzo Maresca pictured on the sidelines during a Chelsea match.
Credit: Imago
Nicolas Jackson among five stars Chelsea want to sell
Chelsea are looking to offload the likes of Nicolas Jackson, Christopher Nkunku, Ben Chilwell, Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi before the window closes.
The Blues have already balanced out their spending with close to £240million worth of player sales this summer.
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Noni Madueke has been their biggest departure, having brought in a £52million transfer fee following his move to Arsenal.
Elsewhere, Joao Felix completed a move to Al-Nassr, with the Saudi side agreeing to pay an initial £26.2million and up to £17.5million in potential add-ons.
Chelsea are hoping some of their other fringe players can be persuaded to make the move to Saudi, where the transfer window is open until 10 September.
The Saudi Pro League is viewed as a more favourable destination as the clubs are typically willing to pay higher transfer fees and offer significant wage packages.
Nicolas Jackson in a home Chelsea shirt during a match.
Credit: Imago
Tottenham could hijack Chelsea’s Xavi Simons deal
Maresca is still looking to add to his squad if the right deals come along over the coming days.
However, former Spurs scout Mick Brown told Football Insider Tottenham are considering a late move to sign Xavi Simons after he’s been heavily linked with Chelsea in recent weeks.
The Blues have been long-term admirers of the Netherlands international but have so far been unable to reach an agreement with RB Leipzig, leaving the door open for rival clubs to swoop in.
The 22-year-old has registered a goal and an assist in his opening two games of the new season.
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