Maresca admits Chelsea flop is on the market as Arsenal circle

Tom Weber

• Updated: 20 Dec 2024 10:06 GMT
• 3 min read

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca provided a very honest answer when quizzed on the future of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.

The midfielder followed the Italian from Leicester to Chelsea in the summer, with the latter paying a sizeable €35.4 million to secure his signature. It was a move that raised eyebrows at the time as there was no immediate need for the Blues to strengthen in the attacking midfield position.

And in hindsight, the doubters were correct as Dewsbury-Hall has so far been nothing more than a luxury substitute and 'B Team' player, primarily featuring in competitions outside of the Premier League.

READ MORE: Chelsea target trio of strikers as contact made with agents

The 26-year-old has been a regular starter in the Conference League but even against the ostensibly weaker opponents in that competition, he has not always been capable of being a standout performer, even if he has managed to score twice and provide an assist.

His situation has given rise to speculation that he could already jump ship again in January.

Maresca admits Dewsbury-Hall is on the market

Earlier this week, the midfielder was the subject of some rather surprising links with Arsenal, while Leicester would also love to bring back their homegrown star, although that has been deemed unlikely given his potential cost.

In light of the rumours, coach Maresca was quizzed about Dewsbury-Hall's future after he scored against Irish side Shamrock Rovers in the Conference League.

"Unfortunately, I can't say he won't leave because anything can happen," Maresca confessed to Ben Jacobs. "I am not focused on January. We are very happy with the way he is working and his performance. We don't want one of our players to leave.

READ MORE: Confirmed - Who Chelsea will sell in January

"With Kiernan, it's a question for him. If a player says he is not happy and wants to play more, we are not going to say you have to stay. We are happy with Kiernan, and then in January we will see."

As things stand, a January departure still appears unlikely as there have so far been no credible suggestions that Dewsbury-Hall is looking to leave.

However, Chelsea still have three games to play before the turn of the year and a lack of minutes during this busy time could tip him over the edge.