Chelsea legend shocked by sales of 'two very key players'

The Blues have been making up for their heavy spending over the past year by selling players this summer, but have they sold one too many?

Chelsea’s decision to sell so many midfielders without signing any replacements has surprised club legend Gianfranco Zola.

Ten members of last season’s squad have moved on, including Mason Mount, Mateo Kovacic, N’Golo Kante, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

Zola admits that the departures of Mount and Kovacic, who joined rivals Manchester United and Manchester City, respectively, for a combined €93 million, will be a big loss for the team.

“I am surprised to have seen so many players leaving,” Zola told talkSPORT.

“I was surprised to see Mason leaving, also Kovacic leaving. They were very important players, not only for the quality, but [what] they used to give the team. With Mason, he is one of the midfielders who could score goals.

“In my opinion, they are a big miss. I don’t mention Kante because he was injured the whole season last season but the other two are very key players.”

Chelsea have welcomed three new players – Christopher Nkunku. Nicolas Jackson, and Angelo – to the fold this summer for a combined €112 million.

Mauricio Pochettino’s side may yet add a new midfield addition. Moises Caicedo is their top target, although talks between Chelsea and the player’s club, Brighton, have stalled.