Callum Hudson-Odoi set to leave Chelsea in search of game time | OneFootball

Chelsea forward Callum Hudson-Odoi is set to leave the club on loan in search of playing time, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The 21-year-old has been struggling to get game time at the London club and wants to move elsewhere. Southampton and Leicester City have indicated an interest in the player, and he could join either on loan before the transfer window closes.

Hudson-Odoi was not even on the bench for Chelsea’s opening game of the campaign against Everton. That is an indication of the level of trust Thomas Tuchel has in him.

After making his debut for Chelsea under Antonio Conte, Hudson-Odoi was billed for a breakout campaign under Maurizio Sarri. Fans clamoured for the player to get time on the pitch with Wiillian and Pedro underperforming.

Around that period, Bayern Munich developed an interest in the player and pushed hard for him across two windows. Sarri had to give him time on the pitch to convince him to stay. Chelsea rejected big offers from Die Rekordmeister before tying him to a long-term contract.

Weeks after signing the contract, Hudson-Odoi would suffer the first of two lengthy injuries that have stunted his development as a player. At the moment, he has not played a competitive game for the club since March due to injuries.

The odd game here and there under Frank Lampard and Tuchel has not helped the player get back up to speed.

Hudson-Odoi is now seeking a loan to get some playing time and consistency.

Southampton have been named as the primary suitors and are pushing for the winger. The Saints are building a young core with some impressive signings this summer. However, they need a spark in attack.

Moussa Djenepo is constantly battling niggling injuries, while Nathan Redmond is wildly inconsistent. Theo Walcott is 33. Ralph Hassenhuttl could do with some fresh legs up front.

Hudson-Odoi was also linked to Leicester and was discussed in negotiations for Wesley Fofana, but nothing concrete has emerged.

A young and hungry player like Hudson-Odoi could change the dynamics of Southampton’s attack.

They need a player that can run at and open defences up. The England international needs to gain consistent first-team game time. It could be the perfect match to restart his development.