Chelsea FC start pre-season without Garnacho as transfer talks advance

Chelsea FC began pre-season training on Thursday without winger Alejandro Garnacho, who is expected to leave Stamford Bridge this summer. The 21-year-old has fallen out of favor after an underwhelming debut season following his £40m move from Manchester United, and the Blues are now actively seeking a £43m (50m Euros) sale.

Why is Garnacho leaving Chelsea FC?

Garnacho's absence reflects his uncertain future at the club. The Argentina international scored just one Premier League goal in 24 appearances last season, struggling for consistency under Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior. Chelsea are determined to offload him permanently, despite reported loan interest from Serie A side Roma. Premier League, European, and Saudi clubs have shown interest, with talks progressing.

What does this mean for Chelsea FC's squad reshaping?

The potential sale is part of new manager Xabi Alonso’s overhaul. Chelsea have already signed Marco Palestra (£47m) and Geovany Quenda (£40m) while selling Marc Cucurella (£52m to Real Madrid) and Tyrique George (£24m to Everton). With a 10th-place finish last season (52 points, 14W-10D-14L, +6 goal difference), Alonso is targeting further reinforcements, including Crystal Palace’s Maxence Lacroix and Rayo Vallecano’s Pep Chavarria.

What’s next for Chelsea FC in the transfer window?

Chelsea are expected to make more signings and sales before their pre-season tour of Australia and Asia. Trevoh Chalobah’s representatives are exploring moves to Inter Milan and Como, while Alonso aims to strengthen the defense. Manchester United will receive 10% of any Garnacho sale, adding complexity to negotiations.