Chelsea are set for a mass exodus from the squad this summer as the Blues look to clear out some of the players from the previous regime. Co-owner Todd Boehly has invested heavily into the playing squad during the two transfer windows he has had since taking control of the club almost one-year ago.
Over half a billion pounds has been spent in adding a whole number of signings to the side, though that is yet to show on the football pitch. New manager Graham Potter has struggled to bring the desired results so far in his tenure, being backed to work with a large number of players.
"I'm not complaining about it. It's exciting but a test for me and the staff," Potter said ahead of his side's clash against Fulham last month. "We have a lot of good players and we have to create an environment where there is healthy competition. Only eleven can play, that is how it is, but it's about being ready and supporting the team. There's going to be frustration at times because only 11 can play."
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While there will be hopes of plenty of squad depth, some of those that aren't featuring in the matchday squad may have to be cut out as a squad clearout is planned. According to the Athletic, a whole number of players could be set to leave the club on a transfer switch this summer.
The report states that those who have one-year remaining on their contract could be free to leave - bar Thiago Silva, who has just agreed an extension for a further year. In that category are Cesar Azpilicueta, Mason Mount, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Mateo Kovacic, Christian Pulisic and Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
Added to those six are the potential for another five exits, with a whole host of players set to be out of contract. Marcus Bettinelli, Ethan Ampadu, Nathan Baxter and Tiemoue Bakayoko are four of those that could be set to leave as there's no news on extending their stay, while N'Golo Kante is another that could leave on a free transfer, though talks are underway over a new contract.
It remains to be seen exactly how many others could follow those out of the door at Stamford Bridge this summer, however it's clear that further changes are required.
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