Ruben Loftus-Cheeks departs Chelsea for AC Milan

• Ruben Loftus-Cheek has become the latest player to leave Chelsea this summer
• The midfielder has joined Serie A side AC Milan in a permanent deal from the Blues
• Chelsea is on a clear-out this summer with several players still expecting to leave the club

Ruben Loftus-Cheek has completed a  transfer from Chelsea to AC Milan, marking a significant milestone in his football career. Loftus-Cheek, who has been associated with Chelsea since the tender age of eight, spent an impressive 19 years at Stamford Bridge, making him a true academy graduate. During his time with the Blues, he showcased his skills in 155 appearances across various competitions, earning a reputation as a promising talent.

However, Loftus-Cheek’s journey was not without its challenges. A serious Achilles injury in the latter stages of the 2018/19 season disrupted his long-awaited breakout campaign. Despite a loan spell at Fulham in the 2020/21 season, Loftus-Cheek struggled to regain his momentum and was subsequently limited to a squad role for the remainder of his time at Chelsea. Seeking a fresh start and new opportunities to reignite his career, the talented midfielder made the decision to join AC Milan, where he will reunite with his former Chelsea teammate Fikayo Tomori. The move to Milan represents a new chapter in Loftus-Cheek’s career, providing him with a chance to showcase his abilities in a different league and under new management.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek has left Chelsea after 19 years and has joined AC Milan on a permanent transfer. | PHOTO: Chelsea FC |

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While Loftus-Cheek’s move to Milan grabs headlines, it’s worth noting that Chelsea has been an active participant in the summer transfer market. The club has already bid farewell to several key players, including Kai Havertz, Mateo Kovacic, Edouard Mendy, and Kalidou Koulibaly. Additionally, it is expected that Cesar Azpilicueta will soon follow suit as he has reportedly agreed to terms with Inter. However, there are uncertainties surrounding Hakim Ziyech’s potential move to Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr due to concerns raised during his medical examination. This fluid transfer situation highlights the dynamic nature of the football industry, with clubs constantly evaluating and reshaping their squads to meet their objectives.

Interestingly, the business between Chelsea and Milan might not end with Loftus-Cheek’s transfer. Reports suggest that AC Milan has expressed interest in acquiring a few more players from the Blues, including the talented winger Christian Pulisic. Pulisic, like Loftus-Cheek, has two years remaining on his Chelsea contract, granting him the freedom to explore other opportunities if the right offer arises. The American winger has attracted attention from various Serie A clubs, showcasing his widespread appeal and the high regard in which he is held in the footballing world.

Conversely, Chelsea has reportedly shown interest in Milan’s goalkeeper, Mike Maignan. However, acquiring the 27-year-old shot-stopper may prove to be financially challenging for the Premier League side, given the expected high price tag. Chelsea is actively seeking competition for their current goalkeeper, Kepa Arrizabalaga, as they aim to strengthen their squad in preparation for the upcoming season.