Olivier Giroud, who was linked with an exit in the months leading up to the January transfer window, has decided to stay at Chelsea once again, as per latest reports. His importance to the squad was well exhibited in recent weeks, with the World Cup-winner’s 9 goals in just 782 minutes being a crucial part of some of Chelsea’s better performances this season.
Just like last season, he managed to gain the trust of Frank Lampard, and he seems to be on Thomas Tuchel’s good books as well given the fact that he started the game against Wolverhampton Wanderers. A change of scenery doesn’t make too much sense for Giroud at this time, given that he would have to adapt to a new environment mid-season, and more importantly, since his place in the France national team for the European Championship is more or less confirmed.
Olivier Giroud is staying at #CFC. He has been regularly linked with a move to Serie A since November. He was worried about losing his place in France squad at Euro Championships, but has played a lot more over last few months & is happy to see the season out at Stamford Bridge.
— Simon Johnson (@SJohnsonSport) February 1, 2021
On a similar vein, it is being reported that Wilfredo Caballero has also decided to stay at Chelsea. The 39-year-old has been demoted to third-choice since Edouard Mendy’s arrival, and while there were earlier rumors linking him with a departure, it would make more sense for him to leave once his contract expires in the summer.
Willy Caballero is another fringe #CFC player going nowhere. Was told last month that after being dropped to third choice goalie, he was considering a move to the MLS, among others. But the club don’t want to lose an experienced option in case Mendy or Kepa get injured.
— Simon Johnson (@SJohnsonSport) February 1, 2021
Charly Musonda and Dujon Sterling, both of whom are currently recovering from long-term injuries, are also unlikely to depart in this window. They both played their last senior-team games last season, and will stay at Cobham in their journeys to get fit, before reassessing their futures in the summer.
Charly Musonda isn't going anywhere today, obviously, but seems to now have a target in mind for when he'll return to the pitch after so long out with injury. pic.twitter.com/ujcsTUmb2c
— Chelsea Youth (@chelseayouth) February 1, 2021
Dujon Sterling is staying and no loan will be happening today. It’s been decided the best option was to stay and get fitness at Cobham for next season. This got decided last week but I kept quiet just incase something changed but it hasn’t and won’t #CFC
— CarefreeYouth (@CarefreeYouth) February 1, 2021
Talented academy graduate Lewis Bate will also stay with the Blues for now, despite interest from a host of EFL sides and will only make a decision regarding his future once the current season ends.
One of #CFC’s best players in the development squad - Lewis Bate - is not leaving on loan. Like the last window, EFL clubs have shown interest but it’s been decided that he’s better off training and playing at Chelsea. Situation will be reassessed in the summer.
— Simon Johnson (@SJohnsonSport) February 1, 2021