New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has reportedly told five senior players they are free to leave the club as he begins reshaping his squad ahead of the new season.
According to Portuguese newspaper A Bola, goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen, defenders Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile, winger Alejandro Garnacho and striker Liam Delap have all been informed they can seek moves elsewhere during the summer transfer window.
The report estimates the combined market value of the five players at around £160 million.
Alonso, who was appointed Chelsea manager this summer, is said to be moving quickly to reshape his squad less than a week into pre-season preparations.
The Sun reported that the Spaniard had already indicated Garnacho could depart Stamford Bridge amid interest from another club.
“We have spoken to the sporting director and there’s interest from him, from another club, so let’s see how it develops.
“I hope it finishes in the best possible way for all parties,” Alonso said during his first press conference.
Garnacho joined Chelsea from Manchester United last summer but endured a difficult first season at Stamford Bridge, scoring eight goals and providing four assists in 43 appearances, according to the report.
Delap also struggled to make a significant impact following his move from Ipswich Town, registering two goals and four assists in 41 matches.
Defender Benoit Badiashile saw limited playing time throughout last season, while Axel Disasi fell out of favour before spending the second half of the campaign on loan.
Goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen also found opportunities difficult to come by, making only 12 appearances.
Chelsea have already strengthened Alonso’s squad ahead of the new campaign with the arrivals of Geovany Quenda, Emmanuel Emegha and Marco Palestra.
Players who featured at the FIFA World Cup are expected to rejoin the club’s pre-season training in the coming days.
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