Chelsea Transfer News: Cesc Fabregas Comments on Blues Exit Talk, Latest Rumours

Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has reiterated his intention to remain at the club and work under new manager Antonio Conte. 

Regular playing time has eluded the Spain international since the Italian took over, with no starts yet in the Premier League for the former Barcelona and Arsenal star; he’s played 32 minutes in the league in total.

Nevertheless, the midfielder told Cadena COPE (h/t ESPN FC) he’s ready to fight for his spot at Stamford Bridge:

"

I'm tired of the news that says that I'm offering myself to other clubs. I'm one more of the team and I will keep fighting to play here.

If I knew that I have no level to play in this team, I would leave, but I'm happy here. It hurts a lot not to play, but I know that I have enough level to play here and I will give my best.

I spoke with Conte. We like him very much, he's a great coach, very hard and he says the things very clear. We are very happy with him.

"

Fabregas was also asked specifically about rumoured interest from Real Madrid. “Real Madrid? Maybe they called me or maybe not,” he said. “But I didn't think to leave Chelsea, not even for a second.”

The 29-year-old gave his manager a reminder of his quality in the EFL Cup tie against Leicester City on Tuesday, as the Blues recovered from two goals down to win 4-2 in extra time; Fabregas netted twice to help Chelsea progress.

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Former Manchester United defender Danny Higginbotham was impressed with the way in which the Spaniard managed the game from an advanced position:

In terms of his defensive aptitude, work rate and physicality, Fabregas may not align perfectly with the standard Chelsea blueprint. But in the appearances he has made this season, he has proved there’s still something there for him to offer.

The challenge for Conte will most likely be fitting the player into his XI without compromising on intensity. However, should he cater for the playmaker in the aforementioned advanced role, he’s still capable of doing some major damage in English football’s top flight.

Mario Pasalic Loan to be Cut Short

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According to Calciomercato (h/t Rhys Turrell of the Daily Star), Mario Pasalic’s loan from Chelsea to AC Milan is set to be cut short, with manager Vincenzo Montella unimpressed by his efforts.

In the early weeks of the season, the Croatian has been shunted down the pecking order, with the Milan boss opting for tried-and-tested midfielders like Riccardo Montolivo, Juraj Kucka and Giacomo Bonaventura instead. 

It’s suggested in the piece that Pasalic’s loan could be ended as early as January. The 21-year-old has spent the previous two seasons out on loan with Elche and AS Monaco. Here’s a look at what he is capable of:

Pasalic has yet to feature in Serie A for the Rossoneri. Although he doesn’t have too much of a case to be banging on Montella’s door, with Milan winning their last two games and occupying sixth place in the Serie A table.

While Chelsea would have been keen to see the Croatia international get some crucial minutes under his belt, these are the dangers of sending a player out on loan instead of developing in-house.

Should the talented midfielder return to the Blues quicker than anticipated, it’ll be fascinating to see what step is taken in an attempt to expedite his progression.