Ben Chilwell faces an uncertain January transfer window, with manager Enzo Maresca admitting he has “no idea” where the England international will end up by the end of the month. Chilwell, who arrived at Stamford Bridge from Leicester City in 2020 for a reported £50 million fee, has made just one senior appearance this season and appears to be surplus to requirements under Maresca’s regime.
Out of favour, but on a big contract
Chilwell’s fortunes have taken a downturn, especially compared to his initial success at Stamford Bridge that included a key role in the 2021 Champions League victory. Despite amassing over 100 appearances for the club, his spot in the pecking order has drastically slipped this season. Maresca has often turned to Marc Cucurella and Renato Veiga for the left-back role, leaving Chilwell largely on the sidelines.
Adding to Chelsea’s dilemma is the defender’s considerable contract, which runs until 2027. He is reportedly earning around £190,000 a week, a figure that has complicated efforts to offload him.
Suitors have found it challenging to match his current wages, so the club could take a look at several scenarios, including a potential severance pay or partly subsidising a loan deal to pave the way for his departure.
Chilwell, for his part, seems reluctant to compromise on his pay, making an immediate exit harder to finalise. As January ticks on, both the club and the player must decide on the most constructive path forward.
Maresca: “No idea” on Chilwell’s whereabouts
Manager Enzo Maresca recently addressed the media, shedding little light on which direction the defender might take. When asked whether Chilwell would still be a Chelsea player after the window closes, Maresca said,
"No idea, to be honest. In terms of the transfer window, generally there are players that probably are going to leave, but not sure at the moment."
Chelsea’s incoming and outgoing plans remain in constant flux, amplified by injuries to Wesley Fofana and Benoît Badiashile. These defensive problems may give Chilwell a lifeline, but the club is also keen to trim the squad for Financial Fair Play reasons.
Potential Manchester United interest
Among the clubs watching this situation is Manchester United. There are whispers that they are exploring defensive reinforcements and considering whether Chilwell might fit their needs. Tighter budgets could still make it a tricky deal, but if Chelsea decides on a cut-price sale or subsidised move, United may view the left-back as a sensible option.
However, Chilwell’s injury record over the past couple of seasons, combined with inconsistent game time, could lower his standing in the market. Where he once commanded a premium price tag, potential buyers may now see him as a risk worth taking only under more favourable conditions.
An impasse that needs resolving
With the clock running on the transfer window, Chelsea must figure out the best way to settle Chilwell’s future. Continuing to pay his substantial wages when he’s not in the manager’s core plans seems impractical in the long run. At the same time, securing an arrangement that benefits both player and club is the priority.
If Chilwell moves on, he can seek the regular game time needed to refocus his career. And for Chelsea, releasing one of the higher earners would help realign their books, particularly as they grapple with squad depth, injury concerns, and FFP considerations.
Whether through a negotiated loan, a subsidised deal, or another creative agreement, finding a path forward before the window closes will be crucial for all parties involved.