Chelsea weighing up loan deal for Everton man?

Chelsea could reportedly look to sign Everton defender Lucas Digne on a short-term deal.

The Frenchman recently had a fall-out with manager Rafa Benitez, and he has been linked with a mid-season exit.

It is now reported that the Blues could make a loan approach after confirming the injury setback for Ben Chilwell.

The Englishman is due to undergo a knee surgery this week after failing to make sufficient recovery in recent months.

The Blues have the option of recalling either Emerson or Ian Maatsen from their loan deals at Lyon and Coventry City.

However, the hierarchy may instead choose to find a temporary signing that could fill the void in the left wing-back role.

Digne has been earmarked as the prime target, but it is unclear whether the Toffees will entertain a loan proposal next month.

The Merseyside outfit are walking a tight rope with Financial Fair Play, and could prefer to offload him on a permanent deal.