Reports suggest that Chelsea will allow Gary Cahill to leave the club in January as a reward for his service to the Blues.

The former England international has been a mainstay in the team since joining from Bolton Wanderers back in 2012. Cahill has lifted two Premier League titles and one Champions League trophy during his time with the Blues and was an important player during Antonio Conte’s final season at the helm. Following the takeover of Maurizio Sarri, Cahill has been unable to force his way into the Italian’s plans.

Reports suggest that Chelsea will now allow Cahill to leave on loan in January to find regular first-team football with his contract set to expire in the summer. To replace him, Chelsea should line up a move for Manchester United outcast – Eric Bailly.

Valued at £27m by Transfermarkt, the Ivorian arrived at Old Trafford from Villarreal with a glistening reputation as one of the world’s most promising defenders. However, Bailly has seemingly never entirely convinced Jose Mourinho of his talent and has been restricted to just three Premier League starts this season. United are in the market for a new centre-back, and reports suggest the player is growing frustrated by his lack of playing time which could prompt a January exit.

The 24-year-old is void of confidence which is showing in his performances. The defender was immense during his first season in England and moving to Stamford Bridge could help him rediscover his best form. Sarri is known to be a great man manager and has contributed to bringing the best out of Eden Hazard this season – he could work his magic again to get Bailly’s career back on track. Bailly is still young and could become one of the world’s best defenders with the right guidance. Indeed, having seen how Sarri brought the excellent Kalidou Koulibaly on during his time in Naples, perhaps he could do the same with Bailly.

There is plenty of time for the defender to turn things around and United’s loss could prove to be Chelsea’s gain.

Chelsea fans, thoughts?