Chelsea surprised fans by extending striker Olivier Giroud’s contract for another season. The Blues also handed an extension to Thiago Silva and head coach Thomas Tuchel. Meanwhile, Manchester United finally cut ties with goalkeeper Sergio Romero.
This was the announcement no one saw coming – Chelsea extended Olivier Giroud’s contract by another year, following the club’s successful bid to win the UEFA Champions League. The club revealed that they had triggered a clause in his contract, which prolonged his deal another season back in April. Giroud, previously, was expected to leave Stamford Bridge on July 1, 2021, upon contract expiry. The Frenchman was reportedly in talks with AC Milan over free transfer.
Apart from that, Chelsea also extended Thiago Silva’s deal until June 2022. The Brazilian defender joined the Blues last summer on a free transfer after quitting Paris Saint-Germain and often captained the side in the absence of Cesar Azpilicueta and Jorginho. The club also extended head coach Thomas Tuchel’s deal until the end of the 2024 season, after he led them to a Champions League title.
The Blues announced the departure of several fringe players, among those, goalkeeper Willy Caballero. The Argentinian shot-stopper fell behind Eduoard Mendy and Kepa Arrizabalaga in the pecking order and was released after four years at Stamford Bridge. Academy graduate Jamal Blackman was also let go, along with Dutch midfielder Marco van Ginkel.
Manchester United confirmed the departure of their Argentine goalkeeper Sergio Romero. Following the emergence of Dean Henderson, the 34-year-old was dropped down to the third-choice goalkeeper. The club refused to sanction a move for the custodian last summer, and he spent an entire year at the club without making a single appearance.
Apart from Romero, United released seven other players, albeit all of them were scholars who were yet to make a first-team appearance. Academy goalkeeper Joel Pereira was also let go by the club after a string of loan spells, but veteran Lee Grant remains in talks to extend his contract further. Similarly, the Red Devils are also in talks with Juan Mata regarding a new contract. The Spaniard’s deal at the club expires on June 30, 2021, following which he will be free to move to the club of his choice – provided they too want him.
