Chelsea centre-back Kurt Zouma, currently on loan at Everton, is enjoying a fine season at the heart of the defence. Much of this is down to the fact he's actually getting regular playing time, something he struggled to achieve at Chelsea. 

According to Sky Sports, Zouma is 'happy' at Everton, but will not start to think about his future prospects until the end of the season.

The last time the French defender put on a Chelsea shirt for a competitive game was in the 2016-17 season - where Chelsea, of course, won the title. Zouma was not central to Antonio Conte's plans, however, his loan move to Stoke demonstrating this.

A return to Chelsea - who paid £12m for the enforcer back in 2014 - would see Zouma rejoining a very different looking team indeed, one where he would appear to be far more needed.

Where Conte played a back three that included both César Azpilicueta and David Luiz, Maurizio Sarri has adopted a different approach, playing four at the back. It's a system that has caused Luiz a lot of trouble over the years, while Azpilicueta now resides at right back.

Essentially, Chelsea do not look the unit they used to be. Zouma, on the other hand, has recently put in a defensive masterclass against one of the league's trickier attackers in Alexandre Lacazette. He bullied him from the opening whistle, proving too strong and too quick for the French attacker on the night.

Now, you can't simply recall the defender because of one match, but Zouma has proved to be a consistent performer in the Everton back-line throughout the entire season, especially towards its conclusion.

At the age of 24, Zouma still has a long career ahead of him. He certainly would give both Antonio Rüdiger and Luiz a run for their money if he is to return. It would make little sense to let him leave, as he could be Sarri’s secret weapon next season at Stamford Bridge.

However, The Mirror report the Toffees are willing to spend big to acquire his services. But with Chelsea's appeal to overturn their transfer ban yet to be decided, it seems implausible that Zouma won't be in Sarri's thoughts.

But who knows, it's yet to be seen whether Sarri will even be in charge next season. Indeed, Chelsea aren't exactly the most logical club in the world.

What do you think, Chelsea fans? Would you like to see Zouma back in a Chelsea shirt? Comment below...