Serie A giants weigh up surprise January move for Chelsea starlet

Napoli are showing an interest in Chelsea midfielder Billy Gilmour, according to reports in Italy.

Gilmour broke through into the Chelsea first team last season, two years after joining their academy. The Scotland under-21 international has 12 senior appearances to his name for the Blues.

However, he is yet to feature in the Premier League this season. Chelsea spent heavily in the summer transfer window, thus reducing opportunities for some of their younger players.

Gilmour’s own prospects of a strong start to the season ended even before then, as he had to undergo surgery on a knee injury. Now, though, Lampard has gratefully welcomed him back.

Gilmour will be keen to keep proving himself when he does get chances, but that may have to be away from Stamford Bridge in the short-term.

According to Calciomercato.it, Napoli are interested in the 19-year-old. The Serie A club have been monitoring Gilmour since last season, and still retain thoughts about signing him.

Napoli explore loan formula

The report claims Napoli would like to take Gilmour on loan in January, to see how he would fit in. If he was successful, they could consider a permanent transfer.

Chelsea, however, may not be so keen to let Gilmour go. Therefore, they could include a buyback clause in any potential sale.

 

Napoli are on the lookout for another midfield reinforcement to replace Stanislav Lobotka, whose move to Italy has not worked out.

The Azzurri already signed Tiemoue Bakayoko on loan from Chelsea to strengthen that department in the summer. And, if these reports are to be believed, they could be ready to raid the Blues again.

READ MORE: One negotation key as Chelsea wait for permanent sale of €20m flop