One of Chelsea’s rising stars, Kurt Zouma, could be sent out to Serie A next season to develop his game, ahead of what is expected to be a bright future at Chelsea.
Sampdoria’s president, Massimo Ferrero, has admitted they are interested in a loan move for Zouma next season. However, there is a spanner in the works – Ferrero hopes to make the move permanent.
It is extremely unlikely Mourinho will entertain the idea of letting Zouma go permanently, just a year after buying the young Frenchman. Zouma has proven this season that he already has the quality to play in the Premier League, despite his age, impressing both at centre-back and in a holding midfield role.
While Mourinho will hope to iron out any clause that would make the deal permanent, the idea of a loan move to one of Europe’s top leagues may well be something that attracts Mourinho.
The Chelsea manager has made it very clear that Zouma is a big part of his future plans at Stamford Bridge, and while impressing this season he is very unlikely to force his way into the first team consistently next season. The loan move will help develop Zouma into the commanding centre-back Mourinho thinks he will become and will also save him from becoming disillusioned on the bench, an issue that has led to the departure of several Chelsea players.
Mohamed Salah found himself on the bench at Chelsea and Mourniho decided to let him out on loan to Serie A side Fiorentina and what a decision that has been. Salah has been in great form for Fiorentina, and while he might not have the bright future at Chelsea that Zouma is likely to enjoy, he has proven his worthand will command a significant transfer fee is he departs the Bridge.