Revealed: Why Chelsea could block second Andrey Santos loan after failed Nottingham Forest switch

Since Lesley Ugochukwu has been sidelined for up to six weeks due to a hamstring injury sustained on Christmas Eve against Wolves, the Blues are looking for cover in midfield. Ugochukwu has already spent a month out of action earlier in the season and this recent setback leaves a void in the squad which could potentially pave the way for Santos to prove his mettle under Mauricio Pochettino, according to The Standard.

Although Ugochukwu has emerged as a vital squad player for Chelsea and has featured in 13 games across various competitions, his recurring injuries are a cause for concern for the club. Nonetheless, his absence hands a lifeline to Santos who had a torrid time at City ground making just two appearances under Steve Cooper.

Santos has already joined the Blues at Cobham and is training under Pochettino. Although there is interest from Crystal Palace and other Championship clubs, Santos is in no hurry to secure another loan spell as he has vowed to fight for his spot at Chelsea.

Moreover, injuries to Romeo Lavia, Carney Chukwuemeka and Enzo Fernandez's hernia problem have left the Argentine manager short of options at the centre of the park which could potentially lead to a January debut for the 19-year-old who is often likened to Manchester United's Casemiro for having similar traits.

Chelsea will be in action against Preston in the FA Cup on Saturday but the match could be too soon for Santos to feature. However, with a few more training sessions under his belt, he could be included in the next Premier League game against Fulham on January 13.