Danny Murphy has urged Xabi Alonso to block a potential exit for Liam Delap while allowing Alejandro Garnacho to leave Chelsea this summer. The former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder believes the struggling Garnacho should be sold, but Delap deserves another opportunity under the new manager.
Alonso's Arrival at Chelsea
Alonso, 44, visited Chelsea's training ground this week as he prepares to take over in July. He was appointed last month after Liam Rosenior's disappointing tenure ended. The Spanish coach inherits a team that finished 10th in the Premier League, missing out on European competition.
Transfer Decisions Ahead
Alonso will focus on strengthening the squad through summer signings but must also address outgoings. Several players are linked with moves away from Stamford Bridge after a poor season. Garnacho and Delap are both candidates for departure following lackluster campaigns.
Garnacho, an Argentina international, arrived from Manchester United with a high reputation but scored only one Premier League goal for Chelsea. Delap, who impressed at Ipswich Town, managed just two goals in 41 appearances and fell down the pecking order.
Murphy's Analysis
Murphy told Metro on behalf of NetBet football: 'I think any manager coming in has to give players a chance. The other thing is that there might not be other clubs who want to take them with the wages they are on or pay the fee for them.'
He added: 'I think Alejandro Garnacho has struggled, and the fans haven't taken to him. If one was going to leave, I think it would more likely be Garnacho than Liam Delap. Delap is a young lad, and he brings some characteristics that Chelsea don't have. He's different to Joao Pedro so I think Xabi Alonso will give him a crack.'
Chelsea are expected to sell one striker this summer as Nicolas Jackson and Emmanuel Emegha return to join Joao Pedro and Delap.
