Casadei in Monza loan talks

Chelsea midfielder Cesare Casadei has opened talks with Monza over a January loan move.

The 21-year-old has struggled for regular game time with the Blues and has received contact from the Italian club.

He has started just three matches this season and made a further two substitute appearances, mostly in the Conference League, but has yet to make a single appearance in the Premier League.

Such is Chelsea's squad depth, the Italy under-21s international has only made the bench twice in the league and rarely features in matchday squads under Enzo Maresca.

Asked about his future in October, Casadei said: "From the moment I spoke to the manager I was 100% sure that the decision to stay was best for me to improve and for my career.

"I didn't want to go permanently. There were some possible loans, but I have always wanted to play for Chelsea. We are one of the biggest teams in the world so I could not be more proud to play for Chelsea."

Monza are currently 19th in Serie A and battling against relegation to the second division.