As the January transfer window approaches, Chelsea's strategy remains uncertain. The Blues, having received a stern warning and a fine from UEFA last summer, are likely still required to balance any new signings with player sales. Manager Enzo Maresca may seek reinforcements, potentially a centre-back or a striker, but any deal would need to be cost-effective.
The Goalkeeping Trio: Quiet Starts
Among the summer departures, three goalkeepers have seen limited action. Marcus Bettinelli joined Manchester City as their third-choice keeper and is yet to make an appearance. Kepa Arrizabalaga moved to Arsenal for £5 million, acting as backup and featuring only in cup competitions so far. Lucas Bergstrom signed for Mallorca, making just five sporadic La Liga appearances for a side languishing in the bottom half.
Defensive and Midfield Moves: Mixed Fortunes
The defensive exits have yielded varied results. Bashir Humphreys joined Burnley for £14 million but has been hampered by injury, making a single appearance. Mathis Amougou moved to sister club Strasbourg for £12 million and has played eight times as they chase European qualification in Ligue 1. Dorde Petrovic, a £25 million signing for AFC Bournemouth, has become a regular starter with the Cherries aiming for a top-half finish.
In midfield, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall has been a standout success. His move to Everton has been fruitful, contributing four goals and three assists in the Premier League and playing a vital role in their strong season. Carney Chukwuemeka is featuring regularly for a Borussia Dortmund side competing for second in the Bundesliga and progressing in the Champions League. Renato Veiga (£24m+ to Villarreal) has been a regular for the high-flying La Liga side, though his form has been inconsistent, and he was recently sent off against Barcelona.
Attacking Exits: Struggles and Salvage Missions
Chelsea's forward sales tell a story of unfulfilled potential and fresh starts. Noni Madueke's big-money £50 million move to Arsenal has yet to ignite; he has made double-figure appearances but needs a strong second half to push for World Cup squad inclusion. Christopher Nkunku's £32 million transfer to AC Milan has seen him play semi-regularly in their Serie A title fight, but with just two goals, his output has been disappointing.
Joao Felix sought to revive his career with a £26.2 million move to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, where he is averaging nearly a goal per game for the league leaders. At Burnley, Armando Broja (£20m) is yet to score, while Lesley Ugochukwu (£23.2m) has featured regularly and scored three times for the struggling Clarets.
Ben Chilwell's loan to Strasbourg has proven a positive move, with the left-back featuring regularly in their European push. Meanwhile, Alfie Gilchrist's £1 million-plus transfer to West Brom has yielded few minutes for the disappointing Championship side.
The fate of these 16 exits underscores the unpredictable nature of the transfer market. While some, like Dewsbury-Hall, have flourished, others highlight the risks involved as Chelsea continues to reshape its squad under financial scrutiny.
