The absence of Alejandro Garnacho from Chelsea's pre-season training has sparked speculation about his future at the club. Garnacho, who joined Chelsea from Manchester United for a reported £40 million, has had an underwhelming season, scoring just one Premier League goal in 24 matches. This has led to rumors of a potential sale, with Chelsea valuing him at around £43 million. The situation is part of a broader reshaping of the squad under new manager Xabi Alonso, who is looking to strengthen the team ahead of the new season.
The 21-year-old's uncertain future is further complicated by the fact that Chelsea is only entertaining permanent offers, despite reported interest from Serie A club Roma. Premier League and European clubs, as well as those in Saudi Arabia, are also believed to be in the running, with talks advancing. Manchester United, Garnacho's previous club, is due 10% of any sale.
Garnacho's struggles under Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior have been a significant factor in his limited playing time. This, coupled with the club's financial situation and the need to reshape the squad, suggests that his time at Stamford Bridge may be coming to an end. The sale would also provide much-needed funds for Chelsea, who have already made significant signings and sales this summer.
The club has completed the signings of full-back Marco Palestra from Atalanta for £47 million and winger Geovany Quenda from Sporting for £40 million. They have also offloaded left-back Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid for £52 million and winger Tyrique George to Everton for a fee that could rise to £24 million. Chelsea is now targeting a center-back, with Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix among their targets, and Rayo Vallecano left-back Pep Chavarria is in talks to move to west London.
The Blues are also expecting a substantial number of outgoings, with Trevoh Chalobah's entourage exploring moves to Italian clubs Inter Milan and Como. With the pre-season tour of Australia and Asia looming, the club is in a state of flux, and Garnacho's absence from training only adds to the uncertainty surrounding his future.
