Crystal Palace are preparing a move to sign Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek on loan, according to The Sun.

The Lowdown: Selhurst Park loan spell

Hailed as “special” by Blues manager Thomas Tuchel, the 26-year-old spent the 2017/18 campaign on loan at Selhurst Park. He impressed with the Eagles that time, contributing to seven goals in 25 appearances as he ultimately made England's World Cup squad in 2018.

The versatile midfielder, who has scored 16 goals and registered 21 assists during his senior career, is now into the final two years of his Stamford Bridge contract, and it looks as if a return to Palace could be on the cards.

The Latest: Transfer news

Alan Nixon of The Sun shared a story in the last 24 hours regarding Palace and Loftus-Cheek.

He said that the Eagles will make a ‘shock move’ to sign the player on loan once again after growing impatient in their pursuit of Wolves’ Morgan Gibbs-White.

The Verdict: Smart move?

Palace have enjoyed success when it comes to signing Chelsea midfielders on a temporary basis, with Conor Gallagher the most recent example.

The 22-year-old is hoping to get a chance under Tuchel in the upcoming campaign, leaving Patrick Vieira with a gap to fill in midfield at Selhurst Park.

Loftus-Cheek could be that man after making 24 Premier League appearances for the Blues last season.

He won’t be arriving in south London with a lack of recent game-time and will be able to play as a defensive, central or attacking midfielder, so it may prove to be a wise move if Palace go for it.