Chelsea hit Deivid Washington transfer problem as exit stalls

Chelsea are keen to sell striker Deivid Washington on a permanent deal this summer, but finding a buyer is proving far from straightforward.

The 21-year-old is eager to secure regular first-team football and is open to either remaining in Europe or returning to Brazil. However, Chelsea's preference for a permanent transfer is complicating negotiations.

The Blues believe a sale is the best solution, although a lack of senior opportunities has made it difficult to attract clubs willing to meet their valuation.

According to reports in Brazil, Chelsea are prioritising a permanent transfer rather than another loan.

Atlético Mineiro have already explored a move for the Brazilian striker, but their preference for a temporary deal does not match Chelsea's plans.

The club's stance is partly influenced by Premier League and FIFA regulations limiting the number of players that can be sent out on loan.

Those restrictions have also reduced the possibility of another move to sister club Strasbourg.

For Washington, the priority is simple.

The striker wants consistent first-team football after spending most of the past three years on the fringes at Stamford Bridge.

He is reportedly willing to leave permanently or on loan, with his focus firmly on playing regularly rather than choosing a specific destination.

Chelsea signed Washington from Santos in 2023 for around €15 million, but opportunities have been extremely limited.

The forward has played fewer than 30 senior minutes for the Blues, spending most of his time with the club's Under-21 side, where he has registered 19 goal contributions in 35 appearances.

A loan return to Santos also failed to revive his career, producing just one goal in 20 matches before Chelsea recalled him because of their loan quota.

Washington's route into the first team has become even more difficult following Chelsea's continued investment in attacking players.

João Pedro, Liam Delap and Emmanuel Emegha have all strengthened the club's striking options, while Marc Guiu, Nicolas Jackson and David Datro Fofana also remain under contract for now.

Despite his uncertain future, Washington is tied to Chelsea until 2030 after signing a long-term deal.

Chelsea want to reduce the size of their squad through permanent sales, but Washington's lack of senior experience makes that objective difficult. Unless another club is willing to invest in his potential, the Blues may eventually need to reconsider their stance on a loan move.

Chelsea will continue searching for a club willing to sign Washington permanently, although interest could increase if they soften their position and become open to another loan before the transfer window closes.