Real Sociedad seek to secure loan deal for Chelsea defender Mamadou Sarr | OneFootball

Real Sociedad are reportedly keen to secure a loan deal for Chelsea FC’s Mamadou Sarr (20), according to French media outlet Foot Mercato.

Saudi club Al-Hilal are also said to be interested in the young defender, to whom the club’s management have reportedly already outlined their plans, and for whom the prospect of playing alongside his compatriot Kalidou Koulibaly (35) could tip the balance.

Having joined the Blues from their “sister” club RC Strasbourg Alsace last winter, Sarr has found the transition to English football difficult, going from being an undisputed first-team regular in Ligue 1 to a substitute in the Premier League.

Having made just seven appearances for the London club, the Martigues-born player was nevertheless selected by Pape Thiaw for the World Cup, though he did not get the chance to make his debut there.

Rarely used by Xabi Alonso during Chelsea’s pre-season preparations, Sarr now appears set to go out on loan to allow him to continue his development.

GFFN | Léo Aschi