Chelsea’s pre-season is underway, but one notable face is missing. Alejandro Garnacho has not reported for training at Cobham as the Premier League club actively looks to sell the Argentine winger this summer.

What Happened

Chelsea began pre-season training on Thursday for players not involved in the World Cup. Garnacho, who is not part of Argentina’s squad at the tournament, was absent from the sessions.

The 21-year-old’s future at Stamford Bridge has been uncertain for months following a disappointing debut season after his £40 million move from Manchester United on a seven-year contract.

Chelsea’s Asking Price

The club value Garnacho at around £43 million (€50 million) and will only consider permanent offers. Reports of loan interest from Serie A side Roma have surfaced, but Chelsea are not interested in a temporary deal.

Premier League clubs, European sides, and teams in Saudi Arabia are all believed to have shown interest. Talks are reportedly open and advancing with several parties.

Manchester United are due 10% of any sale as part of the original transfer agreement.

A Difficult First Season at Stamford Bridge

Garnacho scored just one Premier League goal in 24 appearances last season, with 10 of those coming as a substitute. He struggled to establish himself as a regular starter under both Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior.

He did manage eight goals in 43 matches across all competitions, with six coming in domestic cup competitions, but his overall contribution fell short of expectations.

Chelsea’s Summer Overhaul

Garnacho’s expected departure is part of a wider squad reshaping under new manager Xabi Alonso. Chelsea have already been active in the transfer market:

  • In: Marco Palestra (Atalanta, £47m), Geovany Quenda (Sporting, £40m)
  • Out: Marc Cucurella (Real Madrid, £52m), Tyrique George (Everton, up to £24m)

The club are also targeting a centre-back, with Crystal Palace’s Maxence Lacroix among their targets, while Rayo Vallecano left-back Pep Chavarria is in talks to join.

More outgoings are expected. Trevoh Chalobah’s representatives are exploring moves to Inter Milan and Como in Italy.

What’s Next for Garnacho

The Argentine winger’s next destination remains unclear, but it is increasingly obvious that his time at Chelsea is coming to an end after just one season. A move to the Premier League, a top European league, or Saudi Arabia all appear to be possibilities.

Chelsea finished 10th in the Premier League last season and are preparing for a pre-season tour of Australia and Asia in the coming weeks. Garnacho is unlikely to be on that plane.