Softfootball understands that Chelsea are set to send young striker Marc Guiu out on loan ahead of the new season, as the club looks to provide him with more consistent playing time amidst stiff competition in the forward line.
The 19-year-old Spaniard, who arrived from Barcelona last summer for just €6 million, has found opportunities limited at Stamford Bridge.
He made only a handful of Premier League appearances last season but did manage to showcase his potential in Europe, notching six goals in seven games during Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League run, including a memorable hat-trick against Shamrock Rovers.
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, confirmed the club’s stance via his official X account, noting:
“Understand Chelsea have opened doors to loan move for Marc Guiu but no buy option will be included.
“The clear priority for Chelsea is loan in England; they want Guiu to develop and play in England next season.”
Guiu was sidelined for much of the second half of the season due to injury but made a late return, coming off the bench in the Conference League final. He’s currently part of the Blues squad competing in the FIFA Club World Cup and has featured twice as a substitute during their U.S. preseason tour.
However, his path to regular first-team minutes has grown even more crowded following the arrivals of Liam Delap and João Pedro. As a result, Chelsea see a loan spell as the best step forward.
Ipswich Town have shown interest, and Strasbourg, Chelsea’s affiliated club in Ligue 1 could also be an option. But with Kendry Paez and Mathis Amougou already headed there, only one loanee spot remains, and the club may prefer to reserve that for goalkeeper Mike Penders.
Despite already bolstering the attack with three new faces, Chelsea are believed to still be pursuing players. Netherlands midfield sensation Xavi Simons and Lyon’s Malick Fofana are on their radar.
With plans to retain a roster of nine forwards, any further additions could require at least one departure. Chelsea’s next moves in the transfer market may hinge on who goes and who stays.
