Chelsea's Winter Transfer Chaos: Big Departures, Bold Signings & Last-Minute Drama

From potential departures to last-minute negotiations, Chelsea were at the heart of the mid-season transfer drama. Ultimately, seven players departed—either on loan or permanently—while one new signing arrived at Stamford Bridge. Here’s a breakdown of the Blues' winter window.

Departures

João Félix – A second stint at Chelsea appears increasingly unlikely for the Portuguese forward. Having struggled for game time at Atlético Madrid, Félix secured a deadline-day loan move to AC Milan. The deal, worth £5 million, includes full salary coverage by the Italian side. Aston Villa had also explored a move but failed to reach an agreement.

Renato Veiga – Despite initial interest from Borussia Dortmund, Veiga opted for a move to Juventus. The versatile Portuguese defender arrived at Chelsea just seven months ago from FC Basel for €14 million but struggled for opportunities. His transfer underscores Chelsea’s ongoing strategy of signing young talent with resale value.

Carney Chukwuemeka – Persistent injuries have hampered Chukwuemeka’s development, and with limited opportunities under Enzo Maresca, the 21-year-old secured a loan move to Borussia Dortmund. The deal includes an option to buy at a fee exceeding his £40 million release clause. Dortmund had been monitoring Chukwuemeka since the start of the window and finalized the move on February 2.

Cesare Casadei – The Italian midfielder completed a permanent switch to Serie A side Torino for €15 million, with Chelsea retaining a 25% sell-on clause. Casadei made just 17 senior appearances for the Blues without recording a goal contribution. Having joined from Inter Milan in 2022 for €14.86 million, Chelsea only managed a marginal profit.

Ben Chilwell – The Champions League-winning fullback has struggled for minutes this season, with Maresca deeming him unsuited to his tactical approach. Finding suitors proved challenging, but Chelsea eventually secured a six-month loan deal with Crystal Palace. The England international has made just one appearance this season.

Caleb Wiley – Initially on loan at Strasbourg, Chelsea’s sister club in Ligue 1, Wiley’s spell was cut short as he joined Watford on loan for the remainder of the season. The left-back, signed in July 2024, will now look to gain experience in the Championship.

Axel Disasi – Interest in Disasi emerged late in the window, with Serie A clubs initially monitoring the French defender. However, talks never progressed. Aston Villa and Tottenham entered the race in the final week, and after extensive negotiations, Chelsea agreed to a deadline-day loan move to Villa for a £5 million fee and full salary coverage.