Chelsea have been very active in recent weeks when it comes to sanctioning departures for a number of their current players, whether it be on loan or on a permanent basis. That was always needed as well. Firstly, because they need space in the squad to welcome new signings. Secondly, to balance the books.
Even though key names like Noni Madueke, Kepa Arrizabalaga and Djordje Petrovic have already left, more exits are anticipated and needed. But it looks like Enzo Maresca is hoping to prevent one such departure from happening.
There are a few big-name players at the club right now who are not regular starters and could be weighing up their options. Christopher Nkunku falls under that category and has been expected to leave this summer for months now.
But as reported by L'Equipe (via Metro), Maresca recently held talks with Nkunku. The Italian manager made it clear that he could still be part of his project at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea transfer twist as Enzo Maresca tries to stop exit
Nkunku was clearly not a starter for Chelsea last season, especially in the big games. But he did do well at the recent Club World Cup, showing that he can be a useful contributor to Maresca's team. Has that led to a change in the manager's mind?
Of course, if Nkunku is convinced that he wants to leave, then Chelsea are unlikely to stand in his way. They are believed to be close to signing a somewhat similar profile of player in Xavi Simons. Let's see what he decides to do.
There is no lack of interest in Nkunku's signature. In the Premier League, he has been most heavily linked with Manchester United. Top European clubs like Bayern Munich and Inter Milan are believed to be interested in the French international as well.