Fulham are reportedly considering a surprise move for Chelsea midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko in January.
The Cottagers spent around £100m during the summer transfer window but still find themselves bottom of the Premier League table, having lost each of their last five top-flight games.
Bakayoko is currently on loan at AC Milan, but Calciomercato reports that Fulham could look to swoop for the France international when the window reopens in the New Year as they try to bolster their squad further.
The 24-year-old was deemed surplus to requirements by new Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri following a disappointing debut season at Stamford Bridge, while Milan were also rumoured to be considering terminating his loan early due to poor form.
However, the Italian outfit are now understood to be willing to give Bakayoko time to prove himself, which could complicate any attempts by Fulham to sign him from their West London rivals in January.
Milan have the option to buy Bakayoko for £30m at the end of the season-long loan deal, which has so far seen the midfielder fail to register a goal or assist in 10 appearances for the club.
Barney Corkhill
