Thomas Tuchel preparing major Chelsea clearout after extending Blues contract

Thomas Tuchel is set for a Chelsea clear-out after signing a contract extension until the summer of 2024.

The Champions League-winning Blues boss put pen to paper yesterday (FRI) and will now set his sights on a squad revamp.

Chelsea also announced that Thiago Silva and Olivier Giroud have had their contracts extended by one year.

And Tuchel, who agreed an initial 18-month deal when he replaced Frank Lampard in January said: “I cannot imagine a better occasion for a contract renewal.

“I am grateful for the experience and very happy to stay part of the Chelsea family.

"There is far more to come and we are looking forward to our next steps with ambition and much anticipation.”

Tuchel has been promised money to spend in the transfer market and wants to sign a striker – but could be forced to wait to sign a marquee name.

Manchester City are favourites to sign Harry Kane, while Erling Haaland and Romelu Lukaku are now unlikely to hit the market this summer.

Tuchel wants up to four new signings and plans to boost his transfer budget by selling players, with the club willing to listen to offers of £40m for Tammy Abraham.

Chelsea also expect Fikayo Tomori to complete a £25m move to AC Milan, while fringe players like Emerson will also be made available.

But in a surprise move, the club confirmed that an option to extend 34-year-old France striker Giroud’s contract was taken up in April.

Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia said: “Olivier has been such a crucial part of so many big moments for this club.

“He has continued to score significant goals, and we will never forget his effort against Atletico Madrid on the way to winning the Champions League this season.

“With so much to still to play for, there was only one decision we could make when we exercised the option to extend his contract back in April.”

Giroud had been expected to leave Stamford Bridge, with several Italian clubs interested.

Source: Read Full Article