Chelsea 'face HUGE summer clear-out in order to balance financial books'

Chelsea are facing a huge summer clear-out in order to balance their books, according to a report.

The Blues were one of several clubs to report losses last season, with a £121million dent recorded in their finances.

The record takes their figure to a total of £274million lost over the last two years, with more to come after Todd Boehly's £500m transfer splurge during his first year in charge of the club.

The transfer spend will be included in next year's financial records.

According to The Sun, the club will have to sell several key players in the summer in a bid to avoid financial fair play sanctions.

The move could be a blessing in disguise however, with manager Graham Potter often struggling to manage the Blues' packed squad.

The number of players at the club needs trimming and the summer will present a perfect opportunity to do just that.

Fringe players such as Edouard Mendy, Christian Pulisic and Hakin Ziyech will reportedly be transfer listed in the summer.

Other players such as Conor Gallagher and Mason Mount could also leave the club.

It is also reported that Manchester City are interested in signing left-back Ben Chilwell, who would command a fee in the region of £70million.

All sales to contribute to next year's figures must be completed by June 30.

Usually, the club would need to get their total losses over three years to £105million or below, but Premier League clubs wee given some flexibility due to the impact of Covid 19.

Chelsea's total losses over the last three years stand at £242million.