Chelsea’s young and talented centre-half, Kurt Zouma, might be quite open to a loan move away from Stamford Bridge at the end of the season. The French international has found it had to get back into the first team after remaining on the sidelines for a year with a serious injury.
In an interview with beIN sports, Zouma stated, “A loan before the World Cup? Why not. We’ll see at the end of the season, but I’m focusing on Chelsea. I’m confident and I know I will play. I’ve not talked about my future with Antonio Conte.”
The buy of David Luiz has pretty much ended any big chances for John Terry and Branislav Ivanovic, and Zouma stood down the pecking order. With the success of Conte’s back three, it is difficult to imagine a change next season in that position, which means Zouma’s first team chances are a distant possibility.
Of course, more fixtures will definitely force Conte to rotate the squad but it will be a rare occurrence. And for Zouma to get back confidence, regular minutes is crucial. Only 22, Zouma has a lot of time to regain his stature of a defensive rock that he once had. And moving to a Premier League club next season could be really helpful.
Here are 3 clubs, which could make good use of his services-
Bournemouth- Chelsea inflicted a huge suffering on Eddie Howe’s Bournemouth when they decided to recall their Dutch loanee midseason, that left a glaring void in the Cherries defence. And the fact that Ake hasn’t played even once in the league for Chelsea since then makes it look all the worse.
The Blues could loan Zouma to Bournemouth as a way of avoiding karma if they believe in it. The French international will get all that he seeks for with Bournemouth. Howes’ style of play is not negative as he believes in being on the offensive always, something Zouma would relish.
Crystal Palace- If the Eagles survive the relegation this season, Big Sam is going for more reinforcements surely. And given how badly they need defenders makes Zouma’s availability a big news for them ahead of the window. Mamadou Sakho has been absolutely brilliant for them so far, but a permanent move at the season looks doubtful. Allardyce would definitely take Zouma with open hands, though that midseason recall part wouldn’t be a part of the deal surely.
Burnley- Given the hype that Michael Keane has around him as we move towards the summer transfer window, it is difficult to see the English centre-half staying at Turf Moor beyond this season. And Sean Dyche would not be so foolish as to use the big amount for a high-profile replacement for Keane. Burnley have been surprisingly good this season and they would be needing quality players to level up next season. Zouma could be a brilliant addition.
