Is Ruben Loftus-Cheek Leaving Chelsea for AC Milan?
Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek is reportedly being linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge. The Blues are in the middle of a summer clear-out as they look to balance the books after spending £600million across the last two transfer windows.
Loftus-Cheek, who has received 10 caps for England, started 19 Premier League matches last season. But he struggled to make a positive impact and even spent nine games being utilised as a right-wingback.
AC Milan are understood to be keen on the midfielder – who has not played for England since 2018. The Italian giants are in the market for a midfielder as Ismael Bennacer is set to miss the start of the new campaign with a knee injury. As a result, Loftus-Cheek could solve some of Milan’s problems as he eyes more game time.
The Lewisham-born star has racked up 155 appearances for the West London outfit, contributing 13 goals and 18 assists since making his debut in 2014. He has won the Premier League and Europa League during his nine-year stint with the club.
Competition for Loftus-Cheek
AC Milan are not the only club interested in Loftus-Cheek. Local rivals Inter Milan recently met with Chelsea chiefs to discuss a number of deals including Loftus-Cheek. It remains to be seen which club will win the race for the midfielder’s signature.
Loftus-Cheek’s Potential Role at AC Milan
If Loftus-Cheek does make the move to AC Milan, he could play a crucial role in the team. With Bennacer out injured and Tonali expected to leave for Newcastle, Milan are in need of a midfielder who can provide creativity and stability in the centre of the park.
Loftus-Cheek has shown glimpses of his potential in the past, but he has struggled with injuries and consistency. A move to AC Milan could provide him with a fresh start and the opportunity to prove himself on a bigger stage.
Chelsea’s Summer Clear-Out
Chelsea’s summer clear-out is in full swing, with a number of players potentially departing before the new season. Kalidou Koulibaly and N’Golo Kante have already completed moves to Saudi Arabian clubs Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Christian Pulisic, Trevoh Chalobah, Edouard Mendy, Mason Mount, Hakim Ziyech and Kai Havertz are all potentially departing as well. The Blues are looking to balance the books after spending heavily in the last two transfer windows.
Loftus-Cheek’s Future at Chelsea
It remains to be seen whether Loftus-Cheek will leave Chelsea this summer. The midfielder appeared to say goodbye to Blues supporters during the final game of last season as the Stamford Bridge faithful gave him a standing ovation when he was substituted.
However, Loftus-Cheek could still have a future at Chelsea if he can rediscover his form and consistency. With a new manager in Thomas Tuchel at the helm, there could be opportunities for Loftus-Cheek to impress and earn a place in the starting XI.
Conclusion
Ruben Loftus-Cheek is reportedly being linked with a move away from Chelsea, with AC Milan and Inter Milan both interested in the midfielder. If he does make the move to AC Milan, he could play a crucial role in the team as they look to replace injured midfielder Ismael Bennacer and outgoing midfielder Sandro Tonali. However, it remains to be seen whether Loftus-Cheek will leave Chelsea this summer or stay and fight for his place under new manager Thomas Tuchel.