Billy Gilmour and other two Chelsea players who could leave Stamford Bridge today
According to Football London, Tuchel’s appointment has certainly altered things in terms of players who may depart Stamford Bridge today.
Let’s start with Marcos Alonso. The Spaniard was very much out of favour under Lampard – he hadn’t featured in the Premier League since the 3-3 draw with West Bromwich Albion in September – and was expected to depart on loan this month.
There was reported interest from clubs in Serie A while La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid were also linked with the 30-year-old. Speculation that Barcelona and Real Madrid were keen was quickly dismissed.
However, Tuchel’s arrival and immediate decision to use a system with wing-backs gave Alonso a lifeline at Chelsea.
He didn’t feature against Wolverhampton Wanderers in midweek but was thrust into the starting XI against Burnley yesterday. And he went and scored the Blues’ second goal in a 2-0 win.
Alonso made a point of grabbing the Chelsea badge as he celebrated his strike. He will be staying at Stamford Bridge. What happens to Emerson, who hasn’t featured under Tuchel, is one to keep an eye on.
Olivier Giroud will remain. There was speculation at the start of the month that the French striker could be targeted by Inter Milan and Juventus. Links with Real Madrid also emerged after the Spanish giants let Luka Jovic depart on loan.
Yet the 34-year-old started Tuchel’s first game in charge and has proven himself an important player in the first-team squad this season. He has six months left on his contract and is expected to see those out.
One player who may depart today on loan is Billy Gilmour. The 19-year-old hasn’t featured in the match-day squad for either of Tuchel’s opening two games and has only made six appearances this season.
Gilmour harbours hopes of being included in the Scotland senior squad for this summer’s European Championships, but he will need to be playing regular first-team football in order to do so.
West Ham United have been linked with a move but the domestic loan spots in their squad are occupied by Craig Dawson and Jesse Lingard respectively. Bournemouth had shown interest in Gilmour, but opted to sign midfielder Ben Pearson from Preston North End on Friday.
Reports in Scotland have claimed Rangers, where Gilmour started his career, are interested in the teenager and may make an approach.
Dujon Sterling may also depart on loan if the right offer is made, although Chelsea may opt to keep him at Cobham for the remainder of the season.
The full-back hasn’t played a competitive game in more than a year after tearing his hamstring while on loan at Wigan Athletic in 2019/20.