Chelsea could ‘never say never’ on a potential return for Southampton defender Tino Livramento, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Lowdown: Boehly considering move

The Premier League ace left Stamford Bridge last summer for more game time at St. Mary’s, though recent reports have suggested that Todd Boehly is considering bringing him back to provide competition in that right-back position.

The Athletic have since followed up on such claims revealing that there was a £38m buy-back clause included in his deal meaning that he can be re-signed, despite missing the entirety of this season through injury.

The Latest: O’Rourke’s comments

Speaking to GiveMeSport, O’Rourke refused to rule out the possibility of Chelsea making an approach for Livramento considering the number of times they have done it before. He said:

“You never say never with Chelsea. They’ve done it in the past. They brought players back that they let go early.

“The likes of [Nemanja] Matic and David Luiz both made returns to Stamford Bridge, and Livramento, obviously, was very impressive last season before he picked up his injury. He’s been a big loss for Southampton so far this season as well.”

The Verdict: James alternative

Reece James has proven to be very injury prone so Livramento returning would make sense to provide cover for Graham Potter’s first-choice full-back.

The Croydon-born talent has clocked up 17 assists and five goals throughout the course of his career which has seen him hailed a ‘threat’ in the final third by Noel Whelan.

Considering Livramento is still out of action himself though, it might be wise to wait until next summer when he’ll almost certainly be back to full fitness and out on the pitch again.