‘Joao Felix and Carney Chukwuemeka set for Chelsea return for trophy push’
Chelsea stars Joao Felix and Carney Chukwuemeka are set to return from their loans just in time to compete for a trophy, reports The Athletic.
Felix has completed his deadline day move to Italian giants, AC Milan, on a straight loan with a fee of €5.5million (£4.6million), and no buy option.
Despite joining in the summer for £44.5million, the Portuguese forward has struggled to establish himself, making only three Premier League starts for the Blues.
Chukwuemeka also completed a loan move on the transfer window’s last day, rejecting offers from Everton and West Ham, in favour of a move to Borussia Dortmund in Germany.
The former Villa man started strongly at Chelsea, but has slipped down the pecking order due to injuries, and the form of other players in his position in midfield.
Despite each leaving in the January Transfer Window both Felix and Chukwuemeka will be available for manager Enzo Maresca in this summer’s Club World Cup, reports The Athletic, as their loans expire on 1 June, with the competition beginning on 15 June.
Chelsea rebuilding their infamous loan army under Enzo Maresca
Football Insider Verdict
Prior to Frank Lampard’s reign as Chelsea manager, it seemed nigh-on impossible for young players to break through the ranks at Stamford Bridge.
Many promising talents, such as Josh McEachran, Nathan Baxter, Lewis Baker and Izzy Brown all promised much, but struggled for game time with the Blues.
Chelsea are now at risk of creating another system that hoards young talent, whilst failing to meaningfully develop the players, with even expensive purchases falling by the wayside.
Alongside Chukwuemeka and Felix, Axel Disasi, Raheem Sterling, Lesley Ugochukwu, Kepa Arrizabalaga and Armando Broja are just a few of the 19 players who have been loaned out by the Blues this season.
Whilst that number pales in comparison to the 42 who were loaned out in the 2018/19 season, it does highlight an erratic transfer system, with all but Broja arriving at great expense.
With profit and sustainability rules (PSR), being a near constant concern for the West London club, the Blues’ ownership may be keen to shift some of those players on in permanent deals soon.
In other news, Levi Colwill may be dropped by boss Maresca after his mistake against West Ham.
For more Chelsea and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.