Kurt Zouma could be heading out on loan this summer and Valencia look like being one potential destination for him.
The La Liga side are reportedly pondering a move for the French defender according to Cadena Ser.
Inter Milan have also been rumoured to be interested in Zouma, but with Eliaquim Mangala due to return to Manchester City next month after a season on loan, Valencia could make the most sense for all parties.
The absence of Zouma could be queried, however, given John Terry’s departure.
Antonio Conte has deployed a three-at-the-back system this season so having three central defenders plus at least one in reserve will be key if he continues with that formation.
Andreas Christensen is set to make a comeback after his loan spell at Borussia Monchengladbach and it’s thought he will be kept and played under Conte – he’s impressed in Germany by all accounts.
Virgil van Dijk has been heavily linked to make a move from Southampton, with reports suggesting it would take a world record fee for a defender to secure his signature.
If both of those scenarios happen, Zouma may then be allowed to exit for a spell away – leaving Conte with David Luiz, Gary Cahill, Christensen and Van Dijk as his four main options.
If these pieces fall into place, it may also allow Nathan Ake to go back out temporarily and continue his development. He was impressing at Bournemouth before being recalled.
It remains to be seen if Zouma will leave and where he will go if he does, but it’s safe to say Chelsea will need to buy before he goes anywhere.
