Alejandro Garnacho has not joined up with the Chelsea squad for pre-season as the Premier League club actively look to sell the winger.
Chelsea began pre-season training on Thursday for first-team members not at the World Cup, but Garnacho was absent from the sessions at Cobham. The situation reflects the 21-year-old's uncertain future at Stamford Bridge following an underwhelming season after his £40m move from Manchester United on a seven-year contract.
Why Chelsea want to sell
Garnacho scored just one league goal in 24 Premier League appearances last term, 10 of those off the bench, and struggled to nail down a starting spot under Enzo Maresca and later Liam Rosenior. Across all competitions he managed eight goals and four assists in 43 outings, but the return was deemed insufficient for a club that finished 10th.
Chelsea value the Argentina international at around £43m–£50m (€50m) and are only prepared to entertain permanent offers. Roma have been linked with a loan, while Premier League, European and Saudi Arabian clubs are monitoring the situation. Manchester United hold a 10% sell-on clause, which will factor into any deal.
Squad reshaping under Xabi Alonso
Garnacho’s exit is part of a wider reconstruction being overseen by new manager Xabi Alonso. Chelsea have already completed the signings of full-back Marco Palestra from Atalanta for £47m and winger Geovany Quenda from Sporting for £40m.
Significant sales have also gone through, with left-back Marc Cucurella joining Real Madrid for £52m and academy graduate Tyrique George moving to Everton in a deal that could reach £24m. Further incomings are targeted: a central defender, with Maxence Lacroix of Crystal Palace on the radar, while Rayo Vallecano left-back Pep Chavarria is in talks over a switch to west London. Trevoh Chalobah could also depart, with Inter Milan and Como exploring moves.
Chelsea are working with Garnacho and his representatives to find a resolution. With the Blues heading on a pre-season tour of Australia and Asia, a swift conclusion is desired so both parties can move forward.
