Ruben Loftus‑Cheek set to leave Chelsea

Chelsea are ready to let England Under-21 international star Ruben Loftus‑Cheek leave the club on loan this month, according to the Evening Standard.

The Premier League side, who currently sit top of the top-flight standings after tonight’s clash with London rivals Tottenham at White Hart Lane, want the central midfielder to gain more first-team football elsewhere in order to aid his development.

The 20-year-old, who has featured 15 times for the England Under-21 side, has provided one assist in three appearances in all competitions for The Blues so far this season.

Loftus-Cheek, who has played just nine minutes of Premier League action so far this term (v Leicester City – October, 2016), is attracting interest from West Ham United and Championship outfit Brighton and Hove Albion.

The report suggests The Seagulls have already submitted an enquiry for the midfielder’s services, but The Hammers are also chasing his signature, although Chelsea would want assurances over their youth graduate’s playing opportunities at the London Stadium.