Chelsea consider Matteo Darmian move

Chelsea are prepared to offer an escape route to Manchester United full-back Matteo Darmian in January. The Italy international has failed to make a single appearance this term with manager Jose Mourinho favouring Antonio Valencia for the right-back role.

The 26-year-old has struggled to cement a regular position in the starting line-up ever since his impressive blitz in the opening stages of his debut campaign last term. 

Italian publication Calciomercato says the Blues are lining up a surprise deal for the versatile defender with Antonio Conte keen on a reunion with the player, he knows well since his time with the Italian national side.

Serbian right-back Branislav Ivanovic is in the final year of his contract at Stamford Bridge, and Conte will look to offload him on a bargain price this winter before lodging a bid for Darmian.

Darmian, who is contracted to Manchester United until June 2019, is also the subject of interest from Serie A holders Juventus. He has racked 39 outings for his side since arriving from Torino in the summer of 2015.