Chelsea have finally sold their £225k-a-week defender Ben Chilwell. Fabrizio Romano has confirmed a late deal is sealed for a switch abroad.
Ben Chilwell makes away move from Chelsea
Ben Chilwell’s Chelsea story has ended with a twist few expected. The English left-back now finds himself signing a two-year deal with Strasbourg.
Ever since Enzo Maresca took charge, Chilwell was frozen out. He made just one cup appearance last season before a loan to Crystal Palace rescued his game time. He did show moments of quality there, but not enough to force his way back into the plans of Chelsea.
Marc Cucurella, Jorrel Hato, and Levi Colwill were above him in the pecking order. So, there wasn’t much hope for the player. Chilwell has already completed medicals ahead of joining Strasbourg’s growing project.
A win for Strasbourg, a relief for the Blues
The move isn’t just about football, it’s about finance too. Chilwell’s £225k weekly wage was weighing heavily on Chelsea’s books, and cutting ties frees up room for new investments. Strasbourg, backed by BlueCo, are looking to build an ambitious squad with European football in mind. Chilwell’s experience fits the bill. He will now join Kendry Paez, Mamadou Sarr, and Julio Enciso, providing the French side with both pedigree and leadership.
For Chelsea, the deal represents the end of a five-year journey consisting of 107 appearances and nine goals. He was also a large part of their UCL win in 2021. But, the west London side is in rebuild mode, there was no position for him. Now, his career gets a fresh start across the channel, while the Blues move on lighter and leaner.
Author’s Opinion:
Chilwell leaving is both overdue and necessary. He gave Chelsea big moments, but this reset suits both parties. Strasbourg might just have landed a bargain if he stays fit and motivated.
As featured on Chelseanews.com