Chelsea expect ‘huge fan backlash’ after Reece James update – sources
Chelsea chiefs are expecting a “huge fan backlash” against the Todd Boehly regime if club captain Reece James is sold, sources have told Football Insider.
It is believed the Blues are well aware selling the 24-year-old will not go down well with the fanbase – despite his inability to stay fit.
Recent reports have suggested that Chelsea are considering parting with James in the upcoming summer window in an attempt to balance the books at Stamford Bridge.
Any sale of the right-back would represent pure profit in Financial Fair Play terms as he is a product of the club’s academy.
Football Insider revealed on Tuesday (2 April) that midfielder Conor Gallagher is “definitely” leaving Chelsea and will lead a trio of high-profile home-grown exits in the off-season.
Reece James sale could spark ‘major fan backlash’ at Chelsea
It is believed Armando Broja and Trevoh Chalobah are also set to be sold.
Gallagher will have just 12 months left on his contract in June and is no closer to renewing his deal at Stamford Bridge following a recent halt in talks.
However, the sale of James could represent the final straw for Chelsea fans who are unhappy with the running of their club following Todd Boehly’s takeover in 2022.
He has managed just six starts in nine total appearances for the Blues this term due to a string of injury problems.
The right-back has been widely linked with the likes of Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain in recent years.
In other news, Chelsea could start next season on negative points in new twist.
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