(Image: Getty Images)
Chelsea outcast Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall has been made available for transfer after failing to make his mark in the capital, with Aston Villa said to be the leading candidates for his signature.
According to Football Insider, the Blues are going to listen to offers for the 26-year-old despite him only joining the club is the summer. Dewsbury-Hall joined Chelsea from newly-promoted Leicester City after leading the Foxes to Championship glory under now-Blues boss Enzo Maresca.
After following the Italian to West London, the English midfielder has only managed 55 minutes in the Premier League this season in five appearances off the bench.
Chelsea's large squad and quality in depth has meant Dewsbury-Hall is way down in the pecking order with sources saying he is now 'frustrated' at his lack of first team game time and would be willing to move away from Stamford Bridge after just six months.
Villa are now expected to move forward in their attempts to sign the former Leicester man but could face a challenge with Chelsea reluctant to sell to a top four rival.
Dewsbury-Hall's move to the Blues was a deal worth £30 million, a fee that Chelsea will be looking to recuperate in any potential sale. It is perhaps more likely, though, that a loan move takes place given the Premier League's 'Profit and Sustainability Rules' that could scare teams off from committing that much money midway through the season.
Scottish club Rangers are also said to be interested in the central midfielder although it is unlikely that they will be able to provide the funds that Chelsea are looking for.
Should Villa sign Dewsbury-Hall? Tell us here