(Credit: Imago)

Callum O'Connell

Thu 7 May 2026 10:51, UK

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Alejandro Garnacho has struggled to impress since his big-money move from Manchester United to Chelsea last summer and could move on already.

The 21-year-old has struggled to establish himself as a regular fixture in the starting XI, and when called upon has not done enough to impress his coaches.

Having made the £40million switch from Old Trafford last summer, Blues chiefs were hoping for significantly more impact in his debut season in West London.

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Man United are “delighted” at how the deal has worked out and were happy to cash in.

The money from his sale helped fund deals for Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, both of whom are seen as upgrades on Garnacho, and Chelsea are now assessing their options.

Why are Man United so happy with Alejandro Garnacho’s exit?

Brown told Football Insider in March that Chelsea are not happy with Garnacho, alongside a number of star names who have failed to perform this season.

Man United were keen to cash in on him last summer as similar concerns grew at Old Trafford, and when Chelsea met their asking price, they were happy to let him go.

Strengthening a divisional rival was a slight concern for the Red Devils, but after the way his season has gone, they are pleased with the deal they agreed.

“Man United are delighted with the deal for Garnacho,” Brown told Football Insider.

“When Chelsea came along offering to meet their asking price, £40million or around about that, they snapped their hand off because they wanted rid of him.

“That should’ve been enough of a concern to Chelsea that there was a reason they wanted to sell him, but now they’re experiencing similar issues.

“He’s not consistent enough when he does play to justify a place in the side.

“Chelsea were obviously hoping a fresh start, new surroundings, new teammates, it might get the best out of him but that hasn’t happened.

“So from a Man United point of view, they got their asking price and he’s still struggling, so it’s justified their decision which wasn’t an entirely popular one at the time.”

Could Garnacho be allowed to leave Chelsea already?

Alongside Man United’s delight at the winger’s struggles, there is a growing feeling Chelsea could opt for the same course of action as their rivals did last year.

After what has been a disappointing first season at Stamford Bridge, the Blues are considering letting the winger move on if they can agree a deal at the right price.

Brown told Football Insider on 5 May that Chelsea could accept new offers for Garnacho amid concerns about his performances and influence behind the scenes.

It has been a turbulent season in the Stamford Bridge dressing room, with numerous big-name players involved in controversy including the likes of Enzo Fernandez.

While it is unclear the impact Garnacho, who has been described as an “unstable character”, has had on the situation, he could be part of a major clear-out.