Chelsea is preparing to welcome new signings Jamie Gittens and Joao Pedro from Borussia Dortmund and Brighton respectively, in deals totaling over £100 million. This significant expenditure means that player departures are now essential.
The signings increase BlueCo`s transfer spending to at least £140 million this window. As a result, the club is facing scrutiny from UEFA regarding Financial Fair Play rules. UEFA regulations are stricter than the Premier League`s, requiring clubs to limit spending relative to revenue. Chelsea is also reportedly set to be fined this week as they seek a settlement, further increasing the need to generate funds through player sales to balance their finances.
£195k-a-week forward Christopher Nkunku Linked with Departure
Beyond financial pressures, the influx of new attackers has left manager Enzo Maresca with an abundance of options in the final third, necessitating squad adjustments through player sales.
According to Football Insider and journalist Pete O`Rourke, Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku, who reportedly earns £195,000 per week, is a primary candidate for leaving Stamford Bridge. The report indicates that Nkunku is “pushing” for an exit now to start a new chapter in his career.
Despite scoring 14 goals across all competitions last season, the Frenchman struggled to consistently secure a place in Maresca`s starting lineup. He has been frequently mentioned in transfer rumors since January. Premier League rivals like Arsenal and Tottenham have reportedly shown interest in the 27-year-old.
Even though he faced challenges fitting into a competitive squad, Nkunku contributed when called upon, and his current teammates hold him in high regard.
Last season, João Félix praised him, saying: “Yeah, he’s a top player, we all know his quality, how he is as a player. We already saw him doing amazing things at Leipzig. And yeah, I like to play with him. I think we think the game kind of like the same way. So I think he already know what I’m going to do, and I know what he’s going to do. I think it’s pretty easy to play with him. I think we connect very well.”
