Chelsea
midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek could stay put in the transfer window despite
several clubs wanting him on loan, according to Sky sources.
The 20-year-old was set for a breakthrough campaign after making 13
top-flight appearances last season at Stamford Bridge and it all looked
promising when Antonio Conte took over the reins in the summer.
He started two games in the EFL Cup and was praised from his Italian boss
who described his "great potential" in August.
But he has played just once in the Premier League - eight minutes in
October's 3-0 win over Leicester - and his transition into a more attacking
role has failed to impress, with Nathaniel Chalobah often preferred in the
squad.
However, although it is understood that many clubs are weighing up a move
for the player who joined Chelsea in 2014 as a trainee, a move away may not
materialise.
Asked about potential interest in Loftus-Cheek on Friday, Stoke manager Mark
Hughes said: "We are linked with lots of players and Chelsea have many out
on loan already.
"I'm not saying yes or no but we're looking if good players are available."
One Chelsea player looking set for a return is striker Patrick Bamford,
added Sky sources.
The 23-year-old, who has had previous spells at MK Dons, Derby,
Middlesbrough, Crystal Palace and Norwich, was signed by Burnley on a
season-long loan.
But after six games in the Premier League for Sean Dyche's side, it seems
likely Bamford will end his loan spell at Turf Moor and secure another
temporary move during the January transfer window.
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