Friday 6 January 2017 21:21, UK
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.
