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One Italian side’s struggles to sign a former Chelsea winger have led them to consider launching a move for a current one, according to reports.

Chelsea still have plenty of business to do before the transfer deadline on August 31st. They are aiming to sign Jules Kounde and Saul Niguez to further strengthen a Champions League winning squad. But some player exits are also on the agenda as they look to trim the squad.

One player who has not had many opportunities recently is Callum Hudson-Odoi. After emerging from the academy in 2017, he made a bright impression and became a big-money target for Bayern Munich. His form since hasn’t quite justified the amount of money that Chelsea rejected for his services.

Although there is plenty of time for him to develop still, the 20-year-old is unlikely to be a regular starter at this stage. Therefore, Chelsea may have to re-assess their plans for him.

According to Corriere Della Sera (via Get Italian Football News), Hudson-Odoi could be the subject of a loan enquiry from Atalanta. The Bergamo-based side are looking to add a winger to their squad in the coming days.

They are aware that Hudson-Odoi would be too expensive for a permanent deal. Therefore, they are hoping for a loan deal instead. In a stance that may suit Chelsea in the long-term, Atalanta are happy enough not to have an option to buy, but to return to sender after one year.

The potential move has two interesting subplots. First, of course, communication has already been open between the two clubs for Davide Zappacosta. The wing-back returned to Atalanta from Chelsea on a permanent basis this month.

Second, Atalanta’s pursuit of Hudson-Odoi is a direct result in their frustrations at struggling to close a deal for Jeremie Boga of Sassuolo. Boga, coincidentally, came through the youth ranks at Chelsea and made one senior appearance for them.

Serie A interest nothing new for Hudson-Odoi

Therefore, Atalanta could turn their gaze back to west London, although there is one obstacle. Hudson-Odoi earns high wages as a result of the contract he signed in September 2019.

But there is still a chance of a temporary deal before the window closes in a few days.

Hudson-Odoi started the UEFA Super Cup for Chelsea, lasting 82 minutes. But he has not played in either of their Premier League games so far this season.

Before the season began, he was already linked with a move to Serie A. Former Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri reportedly wanted him at Lazio, but they have since signed Felipe Anderson from West Ham and ex-Blues winger Pedro instead.

Therefore, Atalanta now seem like Hudson-Odoi’s most likely suitors if they can get a deal done.

READ MORE: Chelsea midfielder’s loan exit set to trigger Jules Kounde transfer

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