Chelsea and Manchester City maintain good relations despite Maresca's move

On August 25th, Beijing time (CEST), The Athletic released the 13th edition of the "Transfer Deal Briefing" for the 2026 summer window, which analyzed Chelsea's situation and stated that despite Maresca leaving Chelsea last season to become Manchester City manager this summer, the relationship between Chelsea and Manchester City remains strong.

Which positions and players are they monitoring?

This largely depends on player departures. Currently, the squad is relatively stable, and the priority is to sell or loan out several players. However, if Enzo departs, Chelsea will certainly look to strengthen the squad.

This doesn't necessarily mean finding a direct replacement; they might opt for a midfielder with a different style or a new attacker. Of course, as the transfer window approaches its close, Chelsea will be mindful of the limited availability of suitable options.

Which players might leave?

Chelsea's asking price for Enzo is now higher than the £120 million verbal agreement reached before the August 14th deadline. They also want to ensure they can sign other players before agreeing to any sale, as they do not want to weaken the squad.

Therefore, for Chelsea, the situation must be right on both fronts—not just financially—and they expect Manchester City to make an offer. Despite Maresca's departure last season to become Manchester City manager, Chelsea's relationship with Manchester City remains good.

Jackson is expected to be sold; Unai Emery admires him. Chelsea's asking price is £65 million for Premier League teams and €75 million for overseas teams. Delap is also set to leave, with Nottingham Forest in advanced talks. Guiu has attracted inquiries from Napoli and several clubs in Spain, Germany, and England. Chelsea hopes to sell the 20-year-old for £25 million.

Pedro Neto (£100 million) and Gusto (£75 million) are not on the "not for sale" list, but there are currently no signs of either player being close to a transfer.

Mudryk is favored by several clubs, including Leeds United and Strasbourg, though Chelsea has ruled out a move to Leeds United, despite Mudryk's representatives believing Elland Road would suit him.

Eguogu is likely to be loaned out, with Hull City and Strasbourg among the interested clubs. Mamadou Sarr is close to joining Real Sociedad on loan. Adarabioyo is expected to be sold to English or foreign clubs.

Achampong is highly regarded at Chelsea, and the club has stated he will not leave, but they may reconsider if a substantial offer or attractive loan proposal arrives. Despite previous speculation about Gittens' future, he will remain in Alonzo's squad.

Kellyman will join Strasbourg for an undisclosed fee, with a buy-back clause included. David Washington may also join the French club, though he has also attracted interest from clubs in France, Brazil, and Spain.

Celtic has shown interest in a loan move for Landon Emenalo, but progress will depend on the outcome of their Champions League qualifying play-off second leg against LASK in Austria tonight (Tuesday).

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