Chelsea decision hints at two transfer exits as John Terry's wish answered

Chelsea have reportedly decided to leave academy graduates Trevoh Chalobah and Alfie Gilchrist at home as they head Stateside for their pre-season tour. The defensive duo have been strongly linked with exits during the summer transfer window.

Chalobah could depart Chelsea on a permanent basis. Any fee received from the 25-year-old’s potential exit would amount to pure profit on the club’s financial books.

Meanwhile, Gilchrist, who impressed under Mauricio Pochettino last term, could head out on loan to seek regular first-team football. The 20-year-old has a huge admirer in Chelsea icon John Terry, who has previously advocated for Gilchrist to seal a temporary departure to help him fulfil his potential.

According to Football London, Chalobah and Gilchrist are set to remain at home while their team-mates head to the USA. The travelling squad is reportedly expected to be announced this evening (Monday).

Chalobah was a key part of Pochettino’s plans in the second half of last season and even captained Chelsea at times in the absence of Reece James and Conor Gallagher. He has reported interest from Premier League clubs and teams based abroad.

Enzo Maresca has a bloated first-team squad which still needs to be streamlined over the coming months. A plethora of defensive options will limit the minutes of both Chalobah and Gilchrist.

The latter emerged under Pochettino from January onwards, appearing in 17 matches and scoring once. Last December, former Chelsea captain Terry backed Gilchrist to become the next academy graduate to make the first-team but suggested that a loan move would be beneficial at this stage of his career.

“Alfie Gilchrist is a really, really good player,” Terry said at a fans’ Q&A when asked to identify the academy prospect with the best chance of playing in the senior team.

“He’s got an unbelievable attitude, he’s been at the club since the age of eight. He performs so well on a daily basis and does everything right. I think he’s got a good chance. We spoke about the young players going on loan – I think Alfie’s next step is to go on loan next season, and then we will see how he does.

“I’m expecting big things from Alfie. I expect to see him play a game or two this season, we’ll have to see how the season goes on.”

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Gilchrist has interest from Championship clubs Preston and Sheffield United.