Chelsea might offload defender who earns twice as much as Cole Palmer.
As Enzo Maresca takes the helm at Chelsea, transfer activity is set to intensify. With the club already eyeing Fulham’s Tosin Adarabioyo on a free transfer and seeking a new center-forward, attention must also turn to offloading high-earning players.
Cole Palmer’s stellar performance this season highlights the need for financial recalibration at Stamford Bridge. Signed from Manchester City for £42.5 million, Palmer has shone brightly, scoring 25 goals and providing 15 assists across 45 appearances. Despite his impressive output, Palmer earns just £75k per week, a fraction of some of his higher-paid teammates.
Ben Chiwell
Ben Chilwell, who joined Chelsea from Leicester City for £50 million in 2020, epitomizes this imbalance. Despite his contributions, including a Champions League win, Chilwell’s recent seasons have been marred by injuries, limiting him to just 30 Premier League starts over the last three campaigns.
At £200k per week, his salary dwarfs Palmer’s, putting pressure on Chelsea to reconsider his place in the squad.
Pundits like Jamie Carragher have praised Palmer as one of the Premier League’s best this season. Statistical metrics support this, with Palmer ranking in the top percentages for goals, assists, and shot-creating actions among Europe’s top leagues.
This success means Palmer is likely to seek a new, more lucrative contract soon, but Chelsea’s initial moderate salary for him provides leverage in negotiations.
With Chilwell’s future looking uncertain, especially after his omission from Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad, Maresca and Chelsea’s management may decide to sell.
His high wages, alongside those of other top earners like Raheem Sterling and Reece James, suggest a need for a financial overhaul.
Such moves could provide the financial flexibility needed for new signings and contract renewals for emerging stars like Palmer.
