After splurging over £1B in the transfer market under chairman Todd Boehly, Chelsea can no longer afford to “splash the cash” recklessly. In order to avoid breaching profit and sustainability regulations (along with potential point deductions in the Premier League), Chelsea needs to balance its budget. The first step towards reducing wage bills and limiting expenses is parting ways with players who either lack significant roles or command excessively high salaries.

This season, Chelsea’s performance in the Premier League has been disappointing, with losses to Liverpool in the League Cup final and only the FA Cup left to vie for a title. Despite this, Chelsea’s display has fallen short of expectations from both the leadership and the fans. Consequently, Chelsea has more reason to undergo a squad overhaul.

The first notable star Chelsea could part ways with is Conor Gallagher. Gallagher’s talent is undeniable, and he even captains the team. However, remarkably, Gallagher’s salary is among the highest at the club, making it likely that the midfielder will depart.

According to British media reports, Gallagher wants to stay with Chelsea longer. However, with only one year left on his contract, Chelsea needs to sell the player quickly to avoid losing him for nothing.

The second player from Chelsea’s academy on the transfer list is Trevor Chalobah. Previously, Chalobah had come close to being sold but was unsuccessful at the last minute. Ian Maatsen, currently on loan at Dortmund from Chelsea, may also depart. Similarly, Armando Broja, currently playing for Fulham on loan, is garnering interest from West Ham. Lewis Hall, another loaned-out player, is not in Chelsea’s plans for recall.

Despite being a £60M signing, Marc Cucurella faces the possibility of departure. Chelsea is not keen on the player due to his high salary and poor form since 2022.

Five more names—Malang Sarr, Thiago Silva, Romelu Lukaku, Kepa Arrizabalaga, and Hakim Ziyech—also have uncertain futures. Sarr, earning £100,000 per week, has not played a match for Chelsea since May 2022. Silva is aging, and his contract will expire in June. The remaining three have long been considered surplus, with no desire to stay.

With significant squad upheaval expected at the end of this season, Chelsea may not immediately restore their form. However, manager Mauricio Pochettino must accept reality, affirming succinctly: “This is a normal process of change in football.”