Chelsea have created a second training group for players working separately from Xabi Alonso's main squad ahead of potential exits from the Premier League club.
The alternative sessions include Liam Delap and Nicolas Jackson, who could both leave the West London club this summer on either a permanent or temporary basis. Ukrainian winger Mykhailo Mudryk, 25, has also participated in these sessions after completing a suspension for anti-doping offences, leaving him available for a loan move.
Chelsea are attempting to move away from accusations regarding a "bomb squad" that have affected the Premier League team in past years. Unlike previous isolated players, members of this second group are permitted to train at the same time, work on the same pitch, and use the same first-team facilities at Cobham.
Raheem Sterling was previously among those who had to train on his own at Chelsea's Cobham headquarters. Club sources described the current arrangement as a fluid group with players coming and going depending on workloads and what Alonso requires in his main session.
Chelsea sources also denied suggestions that the separate group consists only of players who are up for sale or loan.
Squad adjustments and senior player fitness
Experienced players Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson have been involved in the secondary training sessions to help them get up to speed. Younger players have also been integrated into the group alongside them.
Chelsea's official website currently lists 41 player profiles for their senior squad. The squad total follows the departure of youngster Reggie Walsh, who completed a loan move to League One side Wigan Athletic on Wednesday.
Defender Axel Disasi is not included among the 41 senior profiles listed online. Disasi has been working separately from Alonso's main sessions while he works on securing his exit from the club. Fellow defender Tosin Adarabioyo is also believed to have trained with the second group amid transfer interest from clubs in England and across Europe.
Main squad preparation for Premier League opener
Several other high-value players who have been linked with summer departures continue to train with Alonso's primary group. Midfielder Enzo Fernandez, valued at £120 million, defender Malo Gusto, valued at £75 million, and winger Pedro Neto, valued at close to £100 million, remain integrated in main squad sessions.
Chelsea are focusing on slimming down their squad before their 2026-27 campaign officially begins. Alonso's first Premier League fixture as head coach takes place on Monday, when Chelsea play away against London rivals Fulham.
