Chelsea reportedly prefer Andreas Christensen over Kurt Zouma

SINSHEIM, GERMANY - APRIL 15: Andreas Christensen of Borussia Moenchengladbach reacts after the Bundesliga Match between TSG 1899 Hoffenheim and Borussia Moenchengladbach at Wirsol Rhein-Neckar-Arena on April 15, 2017 in Sinsheim, Germany. (Photo by Christian Verheyen/Borussia Moenchengladbach via Getty Images)
SINSHEIM, GERMANY - APRIL 15: Andreas Christensen of Borussia Moenchengladbach reacts after the Bundesliga Match between TSG 1899 Hoffenheim and Borussia Moenchengladbach at Wirsol Rhein-Neckar-Arena on April 15, 2017 in Sinsheim, Germany. (Photo by Christian Verheyen/Borussia Moenchengladbach via Getty Images) /
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According to the latest transfer rumours, Chelsea want to keep Andreas Christensen and loan out Kurt Zouma, indicating a preference for the former.

With Chelsea set for a summer of ins and outs, speculation is surrounding the future of some of the younger members of the squad. In the latest rumours, the Blues want Andreas Christensen at Stamford Bridge next season, but they are willing to loan out Kurt Zouma.

The Daily Mail is the source of the story, claiming that Chelsea management see Christensen as a better fit for next year’s squad.

"Chelsea’s technical staff want the Denmark international to develop at Stamford Bridge despite interest from Premier League clubs…Chelsea will lose John Terry this summer and may consider allowing Kurt Zouma out on loan so they want to sign either Virgil van Dijk from Southampton or Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly."

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It has a been a thoroughly disappointing 12 or so months for Zouma. The Frenchman was getting regular football for the Blues last season, but an awful knee injury against Manchester United cut his campaign short. The lengthy recovery period meant that he only returned in January this year.

With Gary Cahill, Cesar Azpilicueta and David Luiz forming the defensive trio, there has been no room for Zouma to enjoy minutes on the pitch. Now, it appears that he may be shipped out so he can receive it.

Christensen, meanwhile, has been coming along leaps and bounds in the Bundesliga. Playing for Borussia Monchengladbach, he has been a regular in defence. Moreover, he has been proving himself to be up to the challenge of an elite league.

Chelsea fans would love for either of the talented youngsters to feature next season, but there are the usual concerns. With a marquee defender expected to arrive over the summer, is there much scope for Christensen to play? Azpilicueta and Luiz are likely the partners for the new signing, hence the Dane will be restricted to substitute and cup appearances.

Bearing that in mind, Zouma may be getting the best deal of the two. At this stage in his career, he cannot afford to waste around on the bench. There will be several top clubs, both in the Premier League and in Europe, who would happily make Zouma part of their first team plans.

Who would rather be? Christensen and remain at Stamford Bridge? Or Zouma out on loan? Sound off below!