Chelsea has unveiled their squad for the pre-season tour across the United States, and it’s already stirring up plenty of discussion.
The team will kick off their tour against Wrexham in California on Wednesday, and will also face Celtic, Club America, Manchester City, and Real Madrid in Charlotte, North Carolina on August 7.
Among the notable absences from the squad are Romelu Lukaku, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Trevoh Chalobah, Cesare Casadei, David Datro Fofana, and Malang Sarr.
Their exclusion has sparked widespread speculation about their future at Chelsea. These six players cost the club a combined £190 million—though Chalobah came through the academy and Sarr joined for free.
Recent reports suggest that Chelsea might face a significant financial hit, potentially losing around £120 million on Lukaku, Arrizabalaga, Fofana, and Casadei, who are now collectively valued at only £70 million.
Lukaku, bought for £97.5 million in 2021, has struggled and spent the last two seasons on loan.
Napoli might be a potential destination due to their striker Victor Osimhen’s uncertain future.
Transfer Rumors and Surprises
Kepa Arrizabalaga, who was signed for £71 million in 2018, also appears set to leave, with Villarreal reportedly interested in him.
The omission of Trevoh Chalobah, a product of Chelsea’s academy, is especially surprising.
With new signings like Wesley Fofana and Axel Disasi ahead of him, Chalobah’s future seems uncertain.
David Datro Fofana, who spent last season on loan at Union Berlin and Burnley, and Malang Sarr, who hasn’t played for Chelsea since the 2021-22 season, are also potential departures.
Cesare Casadei could be sold if the right offer comes in.
Youth and Extended Breaks
Armando Broja, despite being in the 28-man squad, is another player whose future might be in question.
Several youth players like Omari Kellyman and Caleb Wiley, who joined Chelsea recently, are staying behind.
Kellyman is recovering from an injury, while Wiley, along with Gabriel Slonina, will compete in the Paris Olympics.
Marc Cucurella, Enzo Fernandez, Conor Gallagher, Moises Caicedo, and Cole Palmer are on extended breaks due to their participation in Euro 2024 and Copa America.
Fan Reactions
Fans have expressed their frustration over Trevoh Chalobah’s exclusion, with many taking to social media to voice their disappointment.
Some argue that Chalobah, who scored a memorable goal on his Premier League debut, deserves more respect and recognition for his contributions to the club.
As Chelsea embarks on their US tour, all eyes will be on how these absences and potential transfers play out.
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