Chelsea confirm departure of French midfielder

Chelsea have confirmed the departure of midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko on loan to AS Monaco with the option to buy. The Frenchman played no part for the Blues during the opening four games of the season and hence, it was always anticipated that he would head through the exit door before the European transfer deadline.

"Tiemoue Bakayoko has joined his former club Monaco on loan for the season. The French midfielder made 43 appearances for the Blues in 2017/18 having signed for us from the Ligue 1 side, who he had just helped reach the Champions League semi-finals," a statement on Chelsea's website read.

Bakayoko joined the Blues from Monaco two years ago but struggled to make an impact during his debut season. In the previous campaign, he was loaned out to AC Milan where he made over 40 appearances but the Rossoneri decided against a permanent deal for his services.

On his return to the Blues, he became out-of-favour under new boss Frank Lampard after just a few pre-season appearances and he has now made the comeback with Monaco, who are currently lying in the drop zone after three games into the Ligue 1 campaign.