Chelsea outcast unwilling to take pay-cut to leave club in the January transfer window: Reports

Ben Chilwell is refusing to take a pay cut to leave Chelsea in the January transfer window, according to The Sun (via chelsea.news). The English left-back is a forgotten man at Stamford Bridge and was heavily linked with an exit this summer.

Chilwell ended up staying, but has featured just once under Enzo Maresca this season. That came as a half-time substitute in the EFL Cup Third Round tie against Barrow in September.

It is clear that the Italian manager doesn't consider the 28-year-old as a part of his plans. The London giants are keen to move him on, but Chilwell's exorbitant wages are posing a problem.

It is reported that the Englishman earns around £190,000 per week with Chelsea and he has no desire to move for a lesser pay package. Meanwhile, the Blues are struggling to find suitors who can match Chilwell's wage demands.

A transfer to Saudi Arabia could be an option for the player, but it is unclear if he would be willing to end his European adventure so soon. The Englishman's contract runs until 2027, which is also affecting the London giants' plans.

As things stand, Chelsea may have to offer the player a huge severance pay to convince him to move. A heavily subsidized loan deal to another club in the Premier League could also be an option for the Blues. However, given Chilwell's recent struggles, few clubs would be willing to bet on him.

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What is Chelsea's record under Enzo Maresca?

Ben Chilwell

Chelsea parted ways with Mauricio Pochettino in the summer of 2024 and appointed Enzo Maresca as his successor. The Italian manager arrived at Stamford Bridge fresh from guiding Leicester City to a Championship title and earning them promotion to the Premier League.

The Blues invested heavily in the squad once again last summer, molding the squad to fit Maresca's tactics. The London giants have done very well so far under his tutelage, and are fourth in the league table after 19 games.

They are 10 points behind leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand. Chelsea have also been flawless in the UEFA Conference League this season, and are at the top of the pile with six wins from six games.

The Blues have registered 18 wins and six defeats under the Italian manager so far from 29 games. They have scored 72 goals and conceded 32. Maresca's team next faces Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park in the league on Saturday, January 4.