Chelsea remains Marco van Ginkel's goal

Since joining Chelsea in the summer of 2013, life has been nothing but a series of unfortunate events for young Marco van Ginkel.

In just his fourth appearance (and second start), he tore his ACL, ruling him out practically for the rest of the season.  The next summer, he was back in contention for a Chelsea spot, but thanks to one too many non-homegrown players in the squad, he had to go out on loan instead.  It was hoped that he'd find plenty of playing time at AC Milan, but back-to-back ankle injuries in October and November limited him to just two appearances in the first half of the season.

Somewhat surprisingly, he remained at the Italian club even after the January transfer window.  Lately, that's finally starting to pay off with four straight full 90-minute starts.  Many even rated him as the Man of the Match in last weekend's 1-1 draw with Sampdoria.  Perhaps things are finally looking up for the 22-year-old.

In fact, rumors in Italy have recently claimed that AC Milan would like to take him on permanently even, prompting Van Ginkel's agent to set the record straight.  Or about as straight as agents can while still leaving all their options open.

"There is nothing excluded or eliminated.  Milan could be an option, but it is early and we're also waiting to see what will happen with a possible takeover [by foreign investors].  In addition, we have to see what Chelsea and Marco himself want to do."

"Marco's goal remains Chelsea.  The goal was and is Chelsea."

-Karel Jansen; source: Voetbal Primeur via Google Translate

Almost two years ago now, Mourinho personally lobbied Van Ginkel to come join him at Chelsea.  Presumably, Jose still rates him and, as with Oriol Romeu, would certainly want to at least evaluate him in person in the summer before considering any potential sale.