Chelsea’s rebuilding project under new head coach Xabi Alonso has gathered momentum, with Argentine winger Alejandro Garnacho appearing set to leave Stamford Bridge only a year after completing his high profile transfer from Manchester United.
The 22 year old attacker, who arrived in West London amid enormous expectations, endured a frustrating debut campaign that failed to live up to the excitement surrounding his £40 million move. After struggling to establish himself as a consistent performer, Garnacho is now expected to become one of the first major departures of Alonso’s new era.
Speaking to reporters during Chelsea’s pre season preparations, Alonso acknowledged that discussions over Garnacho’s future are already underway and admitted that several clubs have expressed interest in signing the Argentina international.
The Spanish coach explained that Chelsea’s sporting directors are actively handling negotiations while the club evaluates the best solution for both player and team.
“There is interest from other clubs. We have spoken with the sporting directors and we will see how everything develops. Hopefully it ends in the best possible way for everyone involved,” Alonso said.
His comments have strengthened speculation that Garnacho has fallen outside the manager’s long term plans as Chelsea prepare for significant changes ahead of the 2026 and 2027 campaign.
Difficult First Season at Stamford Bridge
Garnacho joined Chelsea last summer after making his name as one of Manchester United’s brightest young talents. The transfer was viewed as a major statement by Chelsea, who believed the Argentine possessed the quality to become one of the Premier League’s elite wide forwards.
Instead, his first season turned into a major disappointment.
Despite receiving opportunities throughout the campaign, Garnacho struggled to adapt to Chelsea’s inconsistent attacking system. He managed only one Premier League goal and found it difficult to produce the explosive performances that had made him a fan favourite at Old Trafford.
Chelsea’s disappointing domestic campaign further complicated matters as the Blues finished tenth in the Premier League, missing out on qualification for European competition. The team’s overall struggles affected several players, including Garnacho, whose declining form ultimately cost him a place in Argentina’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Missing the tournament represented another significant setback for a player once regarded as one of South America’s brightest emerging stars.
Chelsea Prioritise Permanent Transfer
Chelsea’s financial strategy has also influenced the decision surrounding Garnacho’s future.
After another season without European football, the club is looking to reduce its wage bill while generating transfer income to support Alonso’s rebuilding plans.
For that reason, Chelsea are reportedly determined to secure a permanent transfer rather than approve a temporary loan deal.
Several clubs across Serie A are monitoring the situation closely.
Roma are believed to be among the strongest admirers of Garnacho and have explored the possibility of bringing him to the Italian capital. However, reports indicate that Roma would prefer an initial loan agreement, a proposal Chelsea are unwilling to accept.
Napoli, Juventus and AC Milan have also been linked with the winger, with all three clubs searching for additional attacking options ahead of the new season.
Chelsea’s preference remains a full transfer that would allow them to recover a significant portion of their original investment.
Manchester United could also benefit financially from any sale, having negotiated a ten percent sell on clause when Garnacho moved across the Premier League last summer.
Alonso Begins New Chapter
Although player departures are expected, Alonso has made it clear that his primary objective is rebuilding Chelsea into genuine title contenders.
The former Liverpool, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich midfielder recently signed a four year contract and has been entrusted with restoring Chelsea’s identity after one of the club’s most disappointing seasons in recent memory.
Alonso insists every player must earn their place as he establishes a new football philosophy at Stamford Bridge.
According to the Spanish manager, Chelsea are effectively beginning from scratch as they seek to rebuild confidence, improve consistency and return to European competition.
He stressed that success will not come overnight but believes a clear playing style, strong mentality and relentless ambition will eventually guide Chelsea back among England’s elite clubs.
The manager also emphasised the importance of creating a competitive culture where commitment, discipline and hunger become the foundation of future success.
Busy Summer Expected
Chelsea are expected to remain one of Europe’s busiest clubs during the summer transfer window.
Alongside potential departures, the Blues continue to evaluate reinforcements capable of fitting Alonso’s tactical vision.
For Garnacho, a move away could provide the fresh start needed to revive a career that stalled during an unhappy spell in London. At just 22, the Argentine still possesses the pace, creativity and technical ability that attracted Chelsea’s attention in the first place.
Whether his next destination is Rome, Naples, Turin or Milan, the coming weeks could prove decisive for one of football’s most talented young wingers.
As Chelsea reshape their squad under new leadership, Garnacho’s expected exit may become one of the defining stories of the club’s ambitious rebuilding project.
