Chelsea’s January and Future Transfer Plans
As the January transfer window approaches, Chelsea is poised for significant squad reshuffling, with several players potentially leaving Stamford Bridge and one high-profile future signing, Estevão Willian, already sparking debate about his career trajectory.
Players Facing Exits
Carney Chukwuemeka
The 20-year-old midfielder has struggled to break into Enzo Maresca’s plans, having not featured in any Premier League games this season. Despite his hard work, he may look for opportunities elsewhere, with West Ham and Crystal Palace reportedly interested in acquiring his services in January.
Ben Chilwell
Once a captain and key player for Chelsea, Chilwell has fallen out of favor under Maresca. The £200,000-per-week England international is reportedly surplus to requirements and could leave as early as January. Chilwell’s potential departure signals a shift in Chelsea’s tactical and squad priorities.
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Cesare Casadei
Having impressed under Maresca at Leicester City last season, Casadei has not found the same trust at Chelsea. Juventus and AC Milan are said to be interested in the young midfielder, suggesting a return to Italy might be on the horizon.
Axel Disasi
Despite being a relatively recent addition, Disasi could also be on the chopping block, with Chelsea potentially using funds from his sale to pursue Benfica’s Tomas Araújo.
Estevão Willian: The Next Big Thing?
Chelsea secured Brazilian sensation Estevão Willian from Palmeiras in a deal worth up to £52 million, and he is set to arrive in London in July 2025. The 17-year-old has already made waves in the Brazilian Serie A, with 13 goals and nine assists in 2024, drawing comparisons to Lionel Messi from his agent André Cury.
🔵🇧🇷 Ronaldo: “Estevão is kind of like Lamine Yamal”.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 6, 2024
“He will soon be a very big star in football. He's very promising, and at just 17…”.
“I think he'll play for Palmeiras at the Club World Cup then join Chelsea”, told @GiveMeSport. pic.twitter.com/IZKdEnkDuD
Chelsea’s Dilemma
Despite his glowing reputation and immense potential, concerns are growing within the club and from the player’s camp about competition for minutes at Chelsea. To avoid stalling his development, Chelsea is reportedly planning to loan Estevão out immediately upon his arrival.
What’s Next for Estevão?
Loaning him to a club where he can play regularly seems a prudent strategy to ensure he fulfills his potential. His skill set, including prowess in set pieces and his Messi-like qualities, has prompted lofty predictions, including a potential Ballon d’Or in his future.
Chelsea’s Fixture List and January Focus
Chelsea faces a demanding December schedule with matches against Tottenham, Brentford, and Fulham in the Premier League and an away clash against Ipswich Town. With squad reshaping on the horizon, January could mark a pivotal moment in refining Maresca’s side.
Upcoming Fixtures:
- December 8: Tottenham (Home)
- December 15: Brentford (Home)
- December 22: Everton (Away)
- December 26: Fulham (Home)
- December 30: Ipswich Town (Away)
With departures expected and future stars like Estevão Willian in the pipeline, Chelsea’s approach to balancing immediate success with long-term potential will define their strategy heading into 2024 and beyond.
Chelsea’s January and Future Transfer Plans
