Tuchel blueprint could see Chelsea fringe man scramble for last-ditch exit

Thomas Tuchel Chelsea

Chelsea midfielder Billy Gilmour could look to secure a last-minute loan transfer away from Stamford Bridge following Thomas Tuchel’s arrival, a report has claimed.

The 19-year-old burst onto the scene last year with 11 appearances for the Blues’ senior side.

But his performance against Liverpool in the fifth round of the FA Cup in March especially caught the eye.

The Scot proved a glowing presence in the midfield, subsequently earning his first Premier League start five days later.

However, injury soon struck and he remained on the periphery of Frank Lampard’s squad before the 42-year-old’s sacking on Monday.

According to the PA News Agency, though, the teenager’s situation is not going to change under new boss Tuchel.

The source notes that the pairing of Jorginho and Mateo Kovacic against Wolves on Wednesday confirmed ‘expectations’ that the German coach would employ a 3-4-2-1 system.

In fact, Tuchel had tracked Jorginho earlier in his coaching career and is now relishing working with the Italian.

Meanwhile, Kovacic is another player who fits the mould and is likely to maintain a regular role.

The PA News Agency adds that N’Golo Kante is a third midfielder who Tuchel will base his team around.

The coach said of the French World Cup winner: “I wanted many years to have N’Golo Kante in my team and now I have him here.”

But while Tuchel is an admirer of Kante, reports have claimed that the midfielder could leave. The 29-year-old reportedly feels unsettled amid the recent managerial changes in west London.

Gilmour could move away

In any case, Gilmour’s chances look limited so he could seek a last-minute loan spell.

Indeed, the midfielder has his sights on competing for Scotland in the delayed Euro 2020 tournament. But he may have to find more first-team action to make the final squad.

As for Chelsea’s stance, the Blues are well aware of Gilmour’s potential.

However, they are aware that he could face a battle to realise his ambitions for the season if he stays.

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