Chelsea currently boasts one of the strongest squads in Europe, thanks to a relentless spending spree in the last two summer transfer windows. However, few players face an uncertain future at Stamford Bridge with less than a year left in their contract. Here are the six Blues who could leave on a free transfer in the summer of 2022.
Antonio Rudiger
Antonio Rudiger was brought to Stamford Bridge in 2017 but did not make much impact in the first few seasons. He also fell out of favour under former manager Frank Lampard. But, the German has become a staple in the defence since Thomas Tuchel’s arrival, playing a key role in the Champions League win last season. Rudiger’s exit rumours have been circulating in recent weeks as his current deal with the Londoners expires next summer. European giants like Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Juventus are reportedly keeping tabs on him.
Tuchel on Rudiger’s contract situation: “I hope that they find a solution, but it’s not only between coaches and players. It’s between the club and the player’s agent.
“He plays excellent for a long time – very consistent [and] at a very high level. I feel him very calm, very focused, and it’s obviously not a distraction for him.
“So give things time – sometimes it needs a bit longer, sometimes things get very fast. There’s no news from my side.”
The 28-year-old is said to be demanding a lucrative contract to extend his stay at Stamford Bridge.
Andreas Christensen
Like Rudiger, Andreas Christensen has become an improved player under Tuchel. A youth product of the Blues, the Dane has been with the first team for around eight years. The 25-year-old has failed to become a regular under any of the previous managers, but Tuchel has shown a lot of trust in him. Now, it is being reported that Christensen could sign a new deal with the Blues.
The Danish international on his future at Stamford Bridge: “I know a lot is being said right now. I cannot say too much, but I think it looks good.
“We have won the Champions League and the Super Cup. I am very happy to be in the club and feel Chelsea are the right place to be in England. I know Thomas Tuchel believes in me. I have also played a significant role since he came.
“I had a very difficult period under Lampard, shortly before he was fired. Now, luckily, it’s going the right way for me. But yes, things can go fast in this world. The most important thing is just that I have never given up.”
Thiago Silva
Thiago Silva was bought on a free transfer during Lampard’s reign but endured a difficult first season in Premier League. However, the Brazilian defender came to his own terms under Tuchel, with whom he had previously worked at PSG. The 35-year-old continues to defy his age with his impressive consistency, but the biggest question is whether he will continue beyond next summer. Silva signed a one-year extension in the summer, and Tuchel has said the decision over a new deal entirely rests with the Brazilian.
Cesar Azpilicueta
A club legend in every regard, Cesar Azpilicueta, who is currently in his tenth 10th season, continues to deliver his best to the Blues, and he has become an even more refined player under the German gaffer. The Spaniard has recently spoken about his future at Stamford Bridge, stating that he would be willing to pen a new deal.
Lewis Baker
Lewis Baker has failed to make the Chelsea first-team since progressing from the youth ranks in 2014. Over the years, the midfielder has had to spend loan spells at various clubs – likes of Sheffield Wednesday, Vitesse, Leeds, Trabzonspor. He is currently plying his trade with the U-23, having not been registered with Chelsea’s first team for the 2021/22 season. With his contract expiring next year, he could seek an exit from the Londoners.
Charly Musonda
Charly Musonda was once considered a bright prospect, but his journey with the Blues has been quite disappointing. The Belgian youngster suffered a career-threatening cruciate ligament injury two years ago during his loan spell at Vitesse. He only returned to action during the Blues’ U-23 game against Liverpool on Sunday.
