USA international and current Chelsea attacker Christian Pulisic is contemplating a transfer away from the Premier League side after having very few chances at the London club so far this season.
The attacker moved to Chelsea from Borussia Dortmund in the summer for a fee of £58m, but has not impressed new manager Frank Lampard enough to get a starting spot in the Chelsea lineup.
Daily Mail have reported that the 21-year-old could consider his future at the club in the January transfer window if he is not given a “fair chance to prove himself”.
Pulisic has started three of the first eight games in the Premier League, with two substitute appearances. He has two assists so far in the Premier League and four assists in all competitions, but has yet to get on the scoresheet in a Chelsea jersey.
The attacker’s transfer to Chelsea was confirmed in the January transfer window, with him moving to England in the summer in a deal worth £58 million. The USA international has played 32 games for his national team, scoring 13 times and making 10 assists.
What should be Chelsea’s play with Christian Pulisic?
It takes a while for some foreign players to adapt to a new league, especially the Premier League, and it is even more difficult for a young player like Pulisic.
Lampard seems to want to stick to his winning team and not chop and change. The experience of Willian on the right side of Chelsea’s midfield, and Mason Mount or Callum Hudson-Odoi on the left, has restricted Pulisic’s playing time.
Chelsea are currently in all competitions and will need a strong squad, which would need to be fully utilised in the hectic period of December, or further in January and February if the Blues progress to the last rounds of the Champions League and FA Cup.
The Blues should retain Pulisic as they still have the transfer ban for the January transfer window, which means that they will not be able to sign anyone to replace Pulisic if he does leaves.
Lampard should keep the youngster till the end of the season and evaluate his performances for the whole of the season before selling him or loaning him out.