Chelsea already have the perfect Renato Veiga replacement as defender asks for January transfer to Borussia Dortmund

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Reports yesterday have claimed that one of Chelsea’s most versatile players is actually keen on getting more game time elsewhere.

It has been claimed that Renato Veiga has agreed personal terms over a move to Borussia Dortmund, with him believing he has not been played regularly enough in his favoured position.

It is thought that Veiga wants more opportunities to play at centre-back, despite him playing there regularly in the Conference League this season.

That decision was made by the manager, with Enzo Maresca previously delighted at his ability to feature in different positions.

• READ MORE: ‘Incredible’ Chelsea player who Enzo Maresca absolutely loves is getting frustrated, the Blues want to keep him

Chelsea can replace Renato Veiga with Ishe Samuels-Smith

With the news breaking during the January transfer window, it has not taken long for supporters to call for a new option to be signed midway through the season.

However, the club have the chance to continue to put faith in the younger players coming through the academy in a similar way to how they already have with Josh Acheampong, and promote Ishe Samuels-Smith to the first team.

Since joining the academy from Everton, the left-back has been a regular for the U21s in Premier League 2 this season.

The youngster has registered three assists in Premier League 2 so far, however this is yet to result in a first team appearance in any competitions.

How Ishe Samuels-Smith compares to Renato Veiga

What is notable is that the 18-year-old has experience playing in the middle of defence, as well as central midfield, similar to what Veiga has been so good at this season.

Maresca has not been afraid to utilise his younger players when the moment has been right this season. Both Tyrique George and Marc Guiu started at the weekend against Morecambe, whilst Acheampong now looks a genuine contender for first team minutes.

Marc Cucurella has been arguably the best left-back in the Premier League this season, and being back-up to him is likely going to see few minutes coming their way.

However, this could actually be the perfect role for someone like Samuels-Smith, who can look to push on and become a regular in the first team.