‘At least’ eight clubs interested in Ruben Loftus-Cheek, including West Ham — report

Ruben Loftus-Cheek’s recovery from his Achilles rupture isn’t going all that great. Physically, he may be okay, but based on his ten appearances at the end of last season and the start of the new, he’s nowhere near the levels we need him to be at — yet. And finding him the minutes to get him back to that level at Chelsea will prove challenging this season.

(Assuming he can get back to those levels.)

It’s increasingly obvious and accepted that a loan move would give him the best chance, just like it did for Kurt Zouma after his ACL, especially as Chelsea have a bloated squad already, especially in attacking positions.

Aston Villa were named as a potential destination, though they appear more interested in Ross Barkley. But there are plenty of other options, “at least eight clubs in England and Europe”, according to the Telegraph. Matt Law’s report doesn’t name names, but it does mention that West Ham are “tracking” both RLC and Barkley.

Since it looks like at least one of those two will leave before the transfer window closes on October 5, it would certainly make more sense for all involved if that were Loftus-Cheek. And letting RLC go to West Ham could certainly grease a few wheels on a potential Declan Rice bid, either in the next two weeks, or next summer. (They’re not the same type of player, but good business is built on good relationships.)