However, RR might ask for two players from the five-time IPL champions in exchange for their captain. Many have stated that one of these might be Ravichandran Ashwin, because he, too, has asked CSK to release him. However, reports have stated that RR might want two superstars, including the CSK captain, and not Ashwin. According to a report by Cricbuzz, the Rajasthan Royals have asked for Ravindra Jadeja and Ruturaj Gaikwad from CSK in exchange for Sanju Samson. Both are crucial parts of the franchise, with Gaikwad being the current captain. CSK, however, have refused to entertain any such deals. Shivam Dube's name has also appeared in some quarters, but CSK is also unwilling to part ways with the all-rounder. In fact, CSK is refusing to release any player from its squad ahead of the IPL 2026. In fact, the move to acquire Samson from RR might be difficult to go through, unless the franchise manages to secure this trade through extended negotiations or buy him in the auction.   CSK Not Only Team Chasing Sanju Samson The Cricbuzz report also states that there is no guarantee that Sanju Samson might appear in the IPL 2026 mini auction. There are several franchises apart from CSK that are interested in the star wicketkeeper-batter. An earlier report in the Indian Express had stated that the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are also interested in bringing Samson in their ranks. There is also a possibility that Samson might not leave RR at all, because it is completely the franchise's prerogative to keep, release or trade a player. The player has little say in this matter apart from making a formal request to the current franchise management.