Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca calls for Premier League rule change as he admits clubs are 'compelled' to sell academy players with Conor Gallagher closing in on Atletico Madrid transfer

In recent years, the Blues have parted ways with many players who have come through their youth system. Conor Gallagher is the latest homegrown talent set to be sold on, following the likes of Billy Gilmour, Mason Mount, Ian Maatsen, Lewis Hall, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Callum Hudson-Odoi out the door.

The seemingly imminent loss of Gallagher has sparked anger among Chelsea supporters, but new boss Maresca says the club's hands are tied as their need to comply with Profit and Sustainability rules means they must sell players.

Asked about Chelsea's academy sales, Maresca told reporters: "But this is not Chelsea’s problem. These are the rules. All the clubs at this moment are compelled to sell players from the academy because of the rules. It’s all of the Premier League clubs’ problems."

When asked if the club still aims to develop their own players, Maresca said: "Absolutely. I also think the intention of the club is not to sell players from the academy, but it is the rules at the end that you have to do it. It’s not only us; it’s all the Premier League clubs. It’s a shame because in Italy we have Francesco Totti at Roma, 20 years with the same club. A one-club man — we love that in football; the fans want to see that. But with the rules now, it is different from the past."

The Italian argued that the league would have to change its rules, adding: "If they want to protect academy players, then probably yes."

Chelsea continue their pre-season preparations with friendlies against Real Madrid and Inter this week before they kick off their 2024-25 Premier League campaign with a home game against Manchester City on August 18.