Chelsea have reportedly entered talks with Borussia Dortmund over the possibility of offloading Carney Chukwuemeka on loan.
The 21-year-old has been one of many players who have struggled for first-team minutes at Stamford Bridge this term under Enzo Maresca, with the Blues boasting a bloated squad.
It is said that Chukwuemeka is one of nine men who Chelsea are looking to sell in the near future in order to fund a move for Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi.
The midfielder has featured in just five matches for the Blues during the 2024-25 campaign, including four contests in the League Phase of the Conference League.
Since making the high-profile switch from Aston Villa to West London during the summer of 2022, Chukwuemeka has played in 32 matches for Chelsea, scoring twice.
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Chelsea in talks with Dortmund over Chukwuemeka loan?
According to German journalist Florian Plettenberg, Chelsea could be set to reduce the size of their squad with the use of the loan market.
The report claims that the Blues are in talks with Borussia Dortmund, who are interested in securing the services of out-of-favour midfielder Chukwuemeka.
It is believed that any switch to the German side for the 21-year-old would be a temporary one until the conclusion of the 2024-25 campaign.
Dortmund manager Nuri Sahin is said to be a massive admirer of Chukwuemeka, with the Turkish coach pushing for the signature of the England youth international.
With the youngster's deal at Stamford Bridge expiring during 2028, Chelsea are not in immediate danger of losing the talent for a small fee.
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Chukwuemeka suffering from Chelsea's strategy
Spending close to £1bn in recent years, Chelsea have stockpiled a wide array of top talent from around the world of football, a tactic that is beginning to bear fruit under the stewardship of Maresca.
However, the fierceness of competition for places at the Blues has impacted the development of Chukwuemeka, who is yet to feature in the Premier League this season.
Maresca is currently favouring the likes of Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo in the engine room, whilst Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall provides another capable option in reserve.