The Chelsea fans in the Transfer Tavern have been the biggest critics’ of their side’s loan system over the years. Intent on hoarding many of Europe’s biggest and brightest talents, Chelsea’s focus on loaning out young talent has drawn a lot of criticism since Roman Abramovich took charge.

However, over the last few years, it has begun to bear fruit.

The likes of Andreas Christensen and Thibaut Courtois have progressed and made a name for themselves at Stamford Bridge, and that’s going to be very good for the club as they move on to a new era following the departure of the likes of John Terry and Petr Cech.

It makes you wonder, then, just what else they could have hiding up their sleeves.

There is undoubtedly a lot of talent within Chelsea’s loan system, but are any of them ready to take it to the next level and turn out for the Blues?

Our landlord has identified three potential candidates…

Marco van Ginkel

Marco van Ginkel is a player that has always had potential, but injuries have often slowed his progress.

He appears to have shaken those problems off over at PSV this term, though, having been one of the Netherlands’ most impressive midfielders this term.

Given Chelsea’s struggles through the middle of the park, the Dutchman is in with a real chance of clawing his way back into the team ahead of next season. He adds a passing range and an energy that Conte lacks at present.

Kurt Zouma

This one is a slight cheat, given that Zouma is already playing in the Premier League, but it’s pretty clear that the Frenchman is ready to take his game to the next level.

He was a hit at Stamford Bridge before suffering an injury, and the Frenchman has slowly been working his way back to fitness over the last year or so.

He’s looked very good for Stoke City this term, but it’s difficult to light up a league when you’re playing for such an average team. At Chelsea, alongside stalwarts like Cesar Azpilciueta and Marcos Alonso, Zouma can shine.

Michy Batshuayi

It turns out, all Michy Batshuayi needed was a chance.

The Belgian was starved of opportunities at Stamford Bridge, and he duly delivered nothing of note. Over in Germany, however, the forward has been a surefire hit.

He’s scored in nearly every game he’s played in, and he’s arguably the most in-form player on Chelsea’s books right now.

He must return, and if he’s given a chance, he’s proven he can score.