Fikayo Tomori has struggled for game time at Chelsea this season
According to ESPN, Chelsea are ready to listen to loan offers for defender Fikayo Tomori and Antonio Rudiger in the January transfer window.
With five senior centre-backs at the club, Blues boss Frank Lampard is keen to cut down on his squad. A busy summer has seen Chelsea add both quality and numbers to the squad.
Kurt Zouma and Thiago Silva are the club’s preferred centre-back pairing. With Andreas Christensen in reserve, both Ruiger and Tomori have found it hard to get regular game time.
Both defenders have made a combined seven appearances for Chelsea all season. It is fair to say that unless there is an injury crisis, they are unlikely to get an extended run in the side.
Loaning the duo out is more in line with the club’s original plans for them from the summer.
Roma, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United were keen on Rudiger while Everton were interested in taking Tomori on loan. However, it all came to nought and the players stayed put at Stamford Bridge.
Both players were hopeful of staying and fighting for their place. Despite their intention to convince Frank Lampard otherwise, Chelsea’s newfound defensive solidity sees the rearguard pick itself.
Rudiger last played in the 4-0 Champions League win at Sevilla while Tomori has not featured in any competition since September 29.
While it makes sense on paper to loan both players out, Chelsea will be better advised to keep one of them in reserve.
Given his advanced age, Thiago Silva’s game time will have to be managed, meaning we are just one injury away from a shortage. Holding onto either Tomori or Rudiger will ensure we have an extra defender to call upon if needed.
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