Chelsea defender close to joining Schalke on loan

Rob Conlon
Baba Rahman: Defender moves back to Germany

Chelsea defender Baba Rahman is set to join Bundesliga outfit Schalke on a season-long loan deal.

The Ghana full-back has met up with the Schalke squad for pre-season training, ahead of finalising the formalities on his loan switch from Stamford Bridge.

Schalke confirmed Rahman’s presence, tweeting on their official club feed: “Abdul Rahman #Baba is travelling with the #Schalke squad to the training camp.”

Rahman made 23 appearances for Chelsea last term, but has been deemed surplus to immediate requirements by new boss Antonio Conte.

The 22-year-old only joined Chelsea last summer on a five-year deal from Augsburg, and deputised regularly for Cesar Azpilicueta last term.