I was all set to join Chelsea – but transfer fell through after I was told I might have cancer

The former Premier League icon almost made a move to Chelsea, only for the move to collapse in dramatic circumstances

By Chris Burns · Football London

Published: Sunday, 4 October 2026 at 5:00 AM

Key Things to Know

Andy Carroll revealed a 2018 move to Chelsea collapsed after an ankle fracture and a cancer scare.
A specialist reportedly told Carroll he might have shin bone cancer, which the specialist later denied.
Chelsea signed striker Olivier Giroud from Arsenal instead after the move for Carroll fell through.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Andy Carroll has revealed in his autobiography that a proposed 2018 transfer to Chelsea collapsed due to an ankle injury and a startling cancer scare. The former West Ham striker stated that manager David Moyes did not favor him, prompting talks with Chelsea before a fractured ankle ended the potential move.

Carroll also claimed a specialist told him he might have cancer in his shin bone, though the specialist later denied saying it. Following the failed transfer, Chelsea signed Olivier Giroud instead, and Carroll eventually remained at West Ham until the following season.

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I was all set to join Chelsea – but transfer fell through after I was told I might have cancer

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