Chelsea are expected to part ways with a number of first team players this month now the January transfer window is firmly open.
It has been reported that the Blues are looking at strengthening a number of positions this winter, and to do so may need to free up some space in the squad first.
Reports of frustration around gametime have begun to sneak in around Enzo Maresca’s squad, with the manager not currently having the luxury of the Conference League to play his second string stars.
Christopher Nkunku is normally at the top of the list of players this applies to, however he is now not the only one reportedly concerned at his minutes.
Renato Veiga is frustrated with his situation at Chelsea
Summer signing Renato Veiga has been a regular in the matchday squad this season, however starts in the Premier League have been hard for him to come by.
Veiga was left out on Boxing Day for disciplinary reasons, however that issue does not seem to have escalated any further.
Nevertheless, Graeme Bailey has exclusively told The Chelsea Chronicle that the Portugal international is frustrated at his situation at Stamford Bridge.
He said: “Veiga is an interesting one. Obviously Chelsea don’t want to let him go, but he is frustrated apparently. I don’t see Chelsea letting him out.
“I think someone will take Chilwell but it’ll be in the last week, and Chelsea will probably have to pay most of his wages. They don’t want to let Veiga go, but we’ll see how that one goes.”
Enzo Maresca a big fan of Renato Veiga
Veiga has shown immense versatility since he joined Chelsea, playing at left-back, centre-back and even central midfielder.
This has not gone unnoticed by Maresca, with the boss praising him hugely after featuring out of position in the Conference League.
He said: “Renato, I just said to him inside the changing room, he has played as a centre-back, full-back, holding midfielder, attacking midfielder.
“I said the reason why the reason why I love Chelsea is because many players can be versatile. It is better for the team and for the players.
“Today, if you just play one position; I don’t think it’s enough. You need to learn to play more positions.”
The Blues have no real back up for Marc Cucurella in the squad, with Ben Chilwell completely out of the plans whether he stays at the club or not.
Selling Veiga would be a huge mistake, and the second half of the season should present more opportunities to feature in the first team.
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
