Chelsea: Thomas Tuchel gives update on Emerson Palmieri recall

Chelsea are keen to recall the defender from his loan deal at Lyon.

Earlier this week, Chelsea defender Ben Chilwell underwent knee surgery. The operation was successful but the England international will miss the rest of the season nevertheless.

Chelsea, who initially hoped Chilwell will be back in January, have already started their efforts to deal with the situation. Marcos Alonso is the team’s sole option in the wing-back position. However, has failed to live up to expectations this season.

Another option for Chelsea is to call back Emerson Palmieri from his loan spell at Lyon. However, the French club’s agreement is necessary for the 27-year-old’s return.

Speaking ahead of his side’s upcoming clash against Liverpool, Tuchel confirmed they might call Palmieri back.

“We are looking into it because we now have a new situation with Ben Chilwell,” the Chelsea boss said.

“So of course we look into whether we can do something and what we can do,

“One of the possibilities and the players we know and that we love as a person is Emerson but we need to check. We are not into details. We are discussing and reflecting and this will go on for the coming days, maybe weeks.”

According to L’Equipe, Lyon have already rejected Chelsea’s request to send Palmieri back to London. The French side can sign the Italian defender on a permanent deal at the end of the season.

Tuchel used Reece James in the right wing-back position in his side’s 1-1 draw against Brighton. However, Chelsea might monitor the market for other options this January.