Chelsea's summer transfer window has been one of significant activity, and it seems the reshuffling isn’t over yet.
Following the imminent arrival of Wolves winger Pedro Neto, the Blues are preparing to offload several players to trim down their squad.
Among those expected to leave Stamford Bridge are Romelu Lukaku, Trevoh Chalobah, Armando Broja, and David Datro Fofana.
Chelsea's decision to let these players go comes as the club looks to balance its roster after another busy transfer window.
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Lukaku, Chalobah, Broja, and Fofana likely to exit
Romelu Lukaku, whose second stint at Chelsea has been anything but successful, is reportedly close to sealing a move to Napoli. The Belgian striker is said to have agreed on a three-year deal with the Serie A club. His departure would mark the end of a turbulent period for Lukaku at Chelsea, where he struggled to live up to expectations.
Trevoh Chalobah, a versatile defender who has shown promise at times, is currently assessing his options. Despite his potential, the arrival of new signings has pushed Chalobah down the pecking order, leading to speculation about his future. With interest from several clubs, a permanent move away from Chelsea seems likely.
Armando Broja, who spent part of last season on loan at Fulham, is also considering his future. The Albanian forward has attracted interest from Premier League clubs such as Everton and Wolves. Broja is set to have discussions with Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca to decide whether a move away would be in his best interest.
David Datro Fofana, a young striker who joined Chelsea earlier this year, is another player who could be shown the exit door. Fofana has found it difficult to break into the first team, and with the club’s continued investment in attacking players, his opportunities are likely to be limited. Leicester City has emerged as a potential destination for the 20-year-old, with Galatasaray also linked to him.
Neto’s arrival signals a new phase
The impending arrival of Pedro Neto, who is set to join Chelsea in a deal worth up to £54 million ($68.7m), has intensified the need for Chelsea to streamline their squad. Neto’s signing will add further competition in the attacking positions, pushing some players further down the list for game time.
Neto, who has agreed on personal terms with Chelsea, is expected to complete his medical soon. His addition to the squad means that players like Noni Madueke, who was already fighting for minutes, might find it even harder to secure a spot in the starting lineup. This could lead to further departures before the transfer window closes.