Chelsea FC’s choice to offload their top players this summer has stunned Arsenal veteran Paul Merson.
Merson was particularly amused by the Blues’ choice to sell Mason Mount and Kai Havertz to their rivals.
For many years, Havertz and Mason have been essential members of Chelsea.
Both players contributed to the Blues’ victories in the Champions League, Club World Cup, and European Super Cup.
Havertz joined Arsenal for £65 million, while Mount joined Manchester United for £55 million plus £5 million in add-ons.
Merson wrote the following for Sky Sports:
“Let’s be honest: Chelsea’s selling Mason Mount and Kai Havertz is bad business.” I’m just not getting it.
“It might make sense if Chelsea had to bring in some money, but there’s no point bringing in money at the expense of missing out on the top four, which will cost the club even more money.”
“Manchester United and Arsenal are going to be in the mix for the top four next season, along with Chelsea, so why would you weaken yourself by selling two of your best players to direct rivals?”