-
Chelsea are facing a major squad shake-up with Xabi Alonso expected to trim a bloated 41-man senior squad before the transfer window closes.
-
Several high-profile stars, including Nicolas Jackson, Enzo Fernandez, and Malo Gusto, are among those whose futures remain uncertain.
-
With no European football this season, the Blues must reduce their squad significantly to keep competition healthy and balance their finances.
August 07, (THEWILL) — Chelsea head into the final weeks of the summer transfer window with one of the biggest squads in European football, leaving new manager Xabi Alonso with difficult decisions to make.
Here are the eight biggest names whose futures remain uncertain at Stamford Bridge.
1. Nicolas Jackson
Jackson’s place in Chelsea’s attack is no longer guaranteed following the arrivals of João Pedro and experienced striker Danny Welbeck. The club is reportedly open to offers of around £65 million, making the Senegal international one of the biggest names who could leave.
2. Enzo Fernandez
The Argentine World Cup winner remains a key player, but Chelsea have reportedly placed a staggering £120 million valuation on him as he explores his options. While the Blues would be happy to keep him, a suitable offer could change everything.
3. Malo Gusto
Manchester City are reportedly monitoring the French full-back after another impressive campaign. Chelsea are prepared to listen only if bids reach around £75 million, underlining how highly they rate the defender.
READ ALSO: Chelsea Complete Jordan Henderson Signing As Xabi Alonso Continues Experience-Driven Rebuild
4. Liam Delap
![Chelsea FC player in a blue kit celebrating on the pitch with a blurred stadium crowd in the background]”,“A soccer player wearing a blue Chelsea jersey runs or celebrates during a match on the field.”,“Chelsea footballer in a blue jersey with sponsor logo, mid-action on the pitch.”,“Athlete in blue Chelsea kit performing a celebration during a game.”,“Close-up of a Chelsea player in blue, mid-stride on the football pitch.”](https://thewillnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Liam-Delap.jpg "Liam Delap - THEWILL NEWS MEDIA")
Signed for significant money, Delap now faces fierce competition in Chelsea’s crowded forward line. With Alonso expected to keep only three recognised strikers, the England youngster’s future remains far from certain.
5. Benoit Badiashile
Chelsea have too many centre-backs, and Alonso has already admitted he wants to reduce the number. Badiashile is among those available for transfer, with the club reportedly seeking around £30 million.
6. Axel Disasi
Disasi is another defender expected to leave before the transfer deadline. The French international has not been training with the first team and is reportedly available for approximately £25 million.
7. David Datro Fofana
The Ivorian striker has also been excluded from first-team training and is available for either a permanent transfer or another loan move as Chelsea continues to reshape their attack.
8. Dario Essugo
Initially expected to remain at Stamford Bridge, the young midfielder is now reportedly considering a loan move after an injury-hit season limited his development. Regular first-team football could prove more beneficial than remaining in Chelsea’s crowded midfield.
READ ALSO: Morgan Rogers’ First Chelsea Remarks Spark Fresh London Football Debate
Why Chelsea Need to Sell
Chelsea currently have 41 senior players, despite not competing in Europe this season. Alonso is targeting a much leaner squad of around 25 senior players, meaning approximately 16 players could leave before the transfer window closes.
The club have already raised significant funds through player sales in recent years and are expected to continue that strategy as they balance Financial Fair Play obligations while creating space for Alonso’s preferred squad.
With only weeks remaining before the window shuts, Chelsea are expected to be among the busiest clubs in Europe as they attempt to complete one of the biggest squad overhauls of the summer.
Olumide Atiba is a sports journalist with THEWILL, known for his keen news sense and compelling storytelling. He has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, well-structured reports that resonate with readers, with a strong focus on football coverage
