Chelsea’s co-owner Todd Boehly has reportedly held talks with Michael Emenalo, the director of football for the Saudi Pro League, signaling potential strategic discussions ahead of an anticipated summer overhaul in west London.
Boehly’s visit to Saudi Arabia coincides with Chelsea’s need to offload players during the upcoming transfer window to comply with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules. The club is rumored to be under pressure to sanction approximately £100 million ($128 million) in player sales following significant financial losses.
Last summer, Chelsea bid farewell to key players such as Edouard Mendy, Kalidou Koulibaly, and N’Golo Kante, who moved to clubs in the Saudi Pro League. This trend suggests a willingness to engage in transfer dealings with Saudi football entities.
With Chelsea already announcing substantial losses and facing potential sanctions for breaching Financial Fair Play regulations, a summer clearout appears inevitable. Players like Conor Gallagher, Romelu Lukaku, Lewis Hall, Ian Maatsen, Armando Broja, and Trevoh Chalobah are among those speculated to be on the departure list.
Despite significant investments in player acquisitions since Boehly’s ownership began in 2022, Chelsea’s financial situation necessitates a strategic restructuring to trim their squad and ensure compliance with league regulations.