Denis Zakaria’s season-long loan at Chelsea could be cut short, according to CBS reporter Ben Jacobs.
The Lowdown: Lack of minutes
Since arriving at Stamford Bridge this summer, the Switzerland international has failed to make an impact at the west London club.
Despite being on the bench for all of the Blues’ Champions League fixtures, the 25-year-old has only made it into Graham Potter’s Premier League match day squad on one occasion.
Consequently, he is yet to make a competitive appearance in a Chelsea shirt.
The Latest: Jacobs’ news
Jacobs has shared an update on Zakaria’s situation at Chelsea, revealing his season-long loan from Juventus may just be cut short.
Taking to Twitter, the CBS reporter claimed:
“Situation with Denis Zakaria is being described as "fragile". Very real chance the loan spell could be cut short. Zakaria is not only frustrated at lack of game time. He was disappointed by Thomas Tuchel's departure and fears #CFC will only add to midfield in January.”
The Verdict: Good player
Ranking in the 90th percentile for blocks made by midfielders across Europe over the past year (via FBRef), Zakaria holds statistical likeness to established Premier League players like Moises Caicedo of Brighton and Yves Bissouma of Tottenham.
Therefore, it begs the question as to why the Swiss is yet to receive a chance at Stamford Bridge, having clearly been profiled as a strong fit for English football.
Currently earning £90,000-a-week at Chelsea, his season-long loan move seems to have been a mistake for both parties; the player isn’t progressing with minutes on the pitch and the club aren’t getting a return on their investment.
Therefore, if the Blues did end up parting ways with Zakaria, this wouldn’t come as much of a surprise, but it would certainly feel like a bit of a shame.