Chelsea should be delighted to learn that their first-team player is open to the idea of joining a club that are chasing his signature this summer.
The summer transfer window officially opens on 14 June (tomorrow), so it’ll be interesting to see how many go in and out of the doors at Stamford Bridge.
Enzo Maresca is inheriting a fairly large Blues squad, especially when you factor in all the returning loan players.
Chelsea defender linked with exit
Alfie Gilchrist, 20, is the Blues first teamer tipped with a possible transfer this summer.
First of all, LondonWorld reported that Championship side Leeds United have entered into discussions with Chelsea to sign Gilchrist on loan next season. Apparently, Leeds are leading the race to get the young defender despite rival interest from Preston North End and Blackburn Rovers as well.
Now, it’s been claimed that Gilchrist would be open to joining Leeds.
Journalist Ben Jacobs has provided the update that Chelsea’s talent would be willing to spend a year at Elland Road.
Jacobs told JUSTJOE FOOTBALL SHOW: “Leeds, Preston and Blackburn are the three clubs who have made a formative approach so far. To all intents and purposes, Gilchrist would be open to a Leeds move.
“He’s obviously got great respect, though I know Chelsea and Leeds have their own rivalry. Nonetheless, he would go there, and he would be very willing to fight and try to get promoted.”
Alfie Gilchrist can mirror Omari Hutchinson
Gilchrist could be a huge success if he gets his first loan spell next year.
He caught the eye last season after a promotion from the academy to the first team, playing 17 senior games in total.
The English youngster looked strong as a right-back, but he’s actually been a central defender in his youth.
Described as a player with an “unbelievable attitude” by John Terry via The Daily Mail, Gilchrist has fantastic attributes as an aggressive defender and it wouldn’t surprise us to see him thrive in the Championship.
Chelsea’s Omari Hutchinson, 20, produced a remarkable loan last year at Ipswich Town. The winger ended up becoming a key figure as Ipswich were promoted automatically from the Championship, scoring 10 league goals.
Gilchrist could have a similar success story in Leeds colours if he joins them.