Chelsea are stepping up efforts to trim their bloated squad and are now in discussions over the possible sale of another player who has been frozen out of first-team plans.
After agreeing a deal that will see Raheem Sterling leave Stamford Bridge, the club has turned its attention to a member of what supporters have dubbed the “bomb squad” — players training away from the core group as decisions are made on their futures.
Sources close to the situation indicate Chelsea have opened talks with interested parties about moving the winger on before the window shuts, with the player understood to be open to a fresh start after a frustrating spell on the fringes.
The 28-year-old, who arrived in west London with high expectations, has struggled to secure a regular role and has spent long stretches either out of favor or used only sparingly. With Chelsea continuing to reshape the squad around a younger core, there is little expectation he will be reintegrated into the main setup.
Several clubs across Europe and the Middle East have been monitoring developments, with Chelsea willing to listen to both permanent offers and structured deals that would reduce the wage bill. A loan has not been ruled out, but the preference is to complete an outright transfer if a suitable proposal arrives.
For Chelsea, the priority is clear: create space, balance the books and remove players who are not part of the manager’s plans. Sterling’s exit was viewed internally as a key step, and another departure from the same group would further ease the pressure as the club finalises its work in the market.
While no agreement has been reached yet, talks are expected to continue in the coming days. Chelsea are hopeful a deal can be found quickly, allowing all parties to move on before the new season gathers momentum.
