In a twist that few saw coming, rumors are swirling that former Premier League star Andy Carroll might be on the verge of signing with Chelmsford City—a club currently playing in England’s sixth tier.
Yes, you read that right.
The same Andy Carroll who once cost Liverpool a staggering £35 million could now be lining up for a non-league side.
Chelmsford Boss Stays Quiet on the Carroll Talk
When pressed about the potential move, Chelmsford City manager Angelo Harrop wasn’t giving much away.
Speaking to the Non-League Paper, Harrop dodged the question, saying simply: “No comment.”
Instead, he focused on praising the current squad.
“I’m really happy with what we’ve got. There’s real quality, plenty of youth, and loads of hunger. They’re all at good ages too,” he said.
Harrop added that the team’s strategy is all about growth and development, especially with younger players who already bring a lot of experience to the table.
Carroll’s Time in France Was More Than Just a Payday
Despite stepping down several rungs on the football ladder, Carroll made quite an impression in France.
Last season, he scored 11 goals in 23 appearances for Bordeaux in the National 2 division—France’s fourth tier.
That came after a less productive but hardworking stint at Amiens in Ligue 2, where he managed four goals across 35 matches.
It’s worth noting: Carroll wasn’t chasing money in France.
He admitted to playing at a financial loss just to keep his career alive, which earned him plenty of respect from fans and teammates.
A Personal Move Back Home
Just a few weeks ago, Bordeaux confirmed Carroll’s departure, explaining that he was heading back to the UK to be closer to his five children.
The club’s statement was glowing with praise, thanking the former England forward for his “generous personality” and total dedication throughout his time in France.
A Career That’s Been Everywhere
Carroll’s journey began at Newcastle United, where his early promise earned him that blockbuster move to Liverpool in 2011.
He even made nine appearances for England, including a goal at the 2012 European Championship.
His career has also included spells at West Ham, West Bromwich Albion, Reading, and a return stint at Newcastle, before he tried something different by heading to France in 2023.
A Busy Personal Life Off the Pitch
Away from football, Carroll’s personal life has kept headlines buzzing.
He shares three children with reality TV star Billi Mucklow, his partner for 11 years before they split.
He also has two children from an earlier relationship.
These days, he’s dating makeup artist Lou Teasdale.
Why Chelmsford? Why Now?
The buzz about Carroll possibly joining Chelmsford City coincides with the club’s big leap into full-time operations this summer.
The team ended last season in 11th place out of 24 in the National League South, well outside the playoff spots.
For a club looking to establish itself in a new era, bringing in a player with Carroll’s profile—if only for a short stint—could be a statement of ambition.
Building from the Ground Up
Harrop is realistic about the task ahead.
“Our only concern is that we’ve got a completely new squad, so we need to gel fast. We’ll probably only carry 17 or 18 senior players,” he said.
Still, he’s confident that things are heading in the right direction.
“Rome wasn’t built in a day. But we’ve made huge progress in the last two months.
The goal is to build a real football club that can achieve long-term success.”
What’s Next for Carroll?
With Carroll still a free agent and Chelmsford tight-lipped, it’s anyone’s guess whether this unlikely link-up will become reality.
But one thing’s for sure: if the deal goes through, it could be one of the most unexpected stories in English football this summer.