Ben Chilwell finally gets Chelsea transfer wish after Enzo Maresca's 'shame' admission
Ben Chilwell finally gets Chelsea transfer wish after Enzo Maresca's 'shame' admission
Share:
Chelsea have agreed a deal for Ben Chilwell to move to Crystal Palace on loan for the rest of the season. The full-back is set to undergo a medical on Monday ahead of a move to Selhurst Park, as Chilwell goes in search of playing time having been left in the wilderness at Stamford Bridge. The England international has made just one Carabao Cup appearance this term after being cast aside in the summer as the club looked to sell him.
Chilwell could be the second Blues player to move on loan to Palace this term. Trevoh Chalobah joined the Eagles in the summer after being left out of Chelsea's pre-season tour, but has since been recalled and utilised by Enzo Maresca. The Italian coach has expressed 'shame' over the situation Chilwell has found himself in this season. Maresca has admitted that the 28-year-old was in search of more playing time during the winter transfer window.
Speaking last month, Maresca said: "Because players want to play more so there's probably chances for them to leave. But Ben has been top. I have to say that, he has been top. "Very professional, works hard. I feel shame because of that situation but in terms of behaviour, he has been very good.". Maresca also attempted to explain Chilwell's lack of opportunity. "First of all because it is my choice," he said. "And because I can see Malo Gusto, Reece James or Marc Cucurella doing different kind of jobs during the game.
"I think Chilwell is a top full-back, doing that job up and down and given opportunity in past to win titles and be in national team, but I struggle to see Ben doing different kind of things.". Chilwell is not the only player who could make his exit from west London. Joao Felix has struggled for playing time in the Premier League since arriving in the summer and is subject of interest from AC Milan. The Serie A side are keen to sign Felix on loan, Mirror Football understands but are unwilling to pay a sizeable fee. Super-agent Jorge Mendes is trying to unlock the deal but Chelsea are undecided on whether to allow the Portugal international to depart.
Further talks are expected for the forward who has been the subject of other proposals this month. Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
