Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca is prepared to sanction the departure of midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka during the upcoming January transfer window, with West Ham United among the clubs expressing interest in the 21-year-old.

Chukwuemeka, who joined Chelsea from Aston Villa in 2022 for a reported £20 million fee, has struggled to secure regular first-team opportunities at Stamford Bridge. This season, he has been limited to just 130 minutes across five appearances in all competitions and has yet to feature in a Premier League match under Maresca.

According to reports, Chelsea are open to parting ways with Chukwuemeka in January, with a preference for a permanent transfer. However, they may also consider a loan move to provide the midfielder with more playing time. Several clubs have shown interest, including West Ham United, who are reportedly keen on bolstering their midfield options.

Former Premier League scout Mick Brown has noted that while there is interest from both Premier League and European clubs, some English sides have reservations about Chukwuemeka’s lack of experience at the top level. Brown suggests that a move to a European club, such as AC Milan, which has been monitoring the player, might be more suitable.

Chukwuemeka’s potential departure aligns with Maresca’s efforts to streamline Chelsea’s squad. The manager has previously indicated that due to the abundance of players, it would be better for Chukwuemeka to seek opportunities elsewhere to gain regular playing time.

As the January transfer window approaches, discussions are expected to continue between Chelsea, Chukwuemeka, and interested clubs to determine the best pathway for the young midfielder’s development and career progression.