First Chelsea transfer exit confirmed with more to follow after 'secret' Enzo Maresca deal

Chelsea youngster Alex Matos has completed a loan to League One side Oxford United until the end of the season. It has been confirmed that the versatile midfielder will once again be sent away from Cobham to continue his development.

Matos spent the second half of last year at Huddersfield Town in the Championship but hasn't been used under Enzo Maresca. He made his senior Chelsea debut in October 2023 for Mauricio Pochettino.

With more loan movement expected by Chelsea in January, Matos is one of many who could find themselves in men's football before long. He has only been a peripheral member of Filipe Coelho's Under-21 side in the last six months.

His move to Oxford went under the radar with very little said about it before an announcement on Friday. Matos, 20, joined Chelsea on a free in 2023 and arrived as a hugely exciting player but has struggled to make a breakthrough into the first team. He impressed whilst away with Huddersfield, though, although he couldn't keep them from the drop.

Upon the announcement, Matos said: “This is the right move for me at this stage in my career. I’m joining a team where I hope I can make a difference and win a lot of games while continuing to improve as a player.

“I have spoken with the gaffer, and I am confident I can help the team and become a better player under his guidance. I’m a tenacious player who likes to get up and down the pitch and put a tackle in. Having experienced the Championship last season, I’m really happy to be back in the league as I feel it suits my style.

“My aim is to come in and make an instant impact. It will be massive for us to stay in this league and my ambition is to ensure the team reach that goal. For me, this is the right place to be.”

Oxford boss Gary Rowett added: “Alex has a great pedigree as a player and I was impressed with what he showed last season at Huddersfield. There’s a huge hunger in the player to come in and succeed and that’s a mentality that is exciting to work with as Head Coach.

“He will offer something different to us which is important to ensure we have many different options. I’m looking forward to working with him straight away to see how he can enhance the midfield and the team.”

Head of football operations at Oxford, Ed Waldron, continued: “Alex’s talent has been evident since his time with Norwich City, and watching him develop at Huddersfield Town last season showcased he is ready to compete at this level. We have built a strong relationship with Chelsea over the last few years, and we have developed a reputation over that time as a place where talented young players can flourish.

“To have the opportunity for Alex to continue his development here showcases the trust that Chelsea and other Premier League clubs hold in Oxford United, which is fantastic as we benefit in bringing a top professional and quality player into our building. Now, we look forward to watching his progress across the season.”

If all goes to plan, Chelsea will also be seeking exits - either permanent or on loan - for a host of other players. Harvey Vale, 21, is among them. Meanwhile, in Maresca's squad, Ben Chilwell, Carney Chukwuemeka, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall are all expected to depart before the February 3 deadline.

football.london Chelsea WhatsApp channel

Want to keep up to date with the breaking and important Chelsea stories whilst on the move? Well now you can!

Click this link to follow the football.london Chelsea WhatsApp channel, where you'll be kept up to date on the latest Blues news wherever you are.

Just remember to turn on the notifications once you've followed, and you won't miss a beat!