Chelsea are reportedly looking to offload Cesc Fabregas in the January transfer window, as they eye a loan deal to get his wages off their books.
The Spaniard has found it difficult to get into the team under Antonio Conte this season, and following the Italian’s decision to switch to a 3-4-3 system, it looks even more unlikely that the former Barcelona and Arsenal man will get any playing time.
According to The Times, that coupled with his £160,000-a-week wages has resulted in Chelsea concluding that he’s too expensive to have as a squad player and in turn they wish to find a solution for both parties.
It’s added that AC Milan and Juventus could be offered his services, while the report goes on to suggest that Chelsea are even willing to subsidise his wages in order to help seal a move away from Stamford Bridge.
The 29-year-old is said to have impressed Conte and his staff with his professionalism and work ethic in training despite not playing, but ultimately it comes down to a tactical decision and a belief from the Chelsea boss that Fabregas isn’t capable of playing the midfield role that he requires.
As seen on Twitter on numerous occasions, Fabregas has reiterated that he’s happy in London and has no desire to leave. However, if he is likely to remain a bit-part player at Chelsea, then surely he will want to move on and secure regular football at this stage of his career.
The Spanish international has made just six appearances in all competitions so far this season, scoring twice and adding two assists to his work. However, it hasn’t been enough to prove to Conte that he has a future under him and so an exit still looks the most likely end result.