Chelsea could be facing another transfer headache after Alejandro Garnacho's permanent move to Aston Villa was thrown into doubt.
The Argentine winger left Stamford Bridge during the summer transfer window after struggling to establish himself in west London, with Unai Emery viewed as the manager who could finally get the best out of him.
However, things have not gone to plan for the 22-year-old, who is already finding regular minutes difficult to come by at Villa Park.
The Blues had hoped his departure would become permanent next summer, but his lack of involvement is threatening to complicate those plans.
Chelsea face fresh Alejandro Garnacho transfer problem
According to Football365, citing a report from Football Insider, Aston Villa's agreement to sign Garnacho permanently is now in jeopardy, with Chelsea reportedly growing frustrated by his lack of playing time.
The deal includes a conditional obligation to buy worth around £43million, which would be triggered if the winger reaches an agreed appearance threshold this season.
That condition was previously considered achievable, but Garnacho's current situation has raised serious questions about whether it will actually be met.
The former Manchester United youngster has made just four substitute appearances for Villa in all competitions, accumulating 42 minutes on the pitch. He was also left out of the matchday squad for their 1-0 victory over Newcastle United at the weekend.
Recent reports suggest Chelsea are concerned about the financial implications of the situation, with the club potentially facing the prospect of having to find another buyer next summer.
It is an awkward position for the Blues, who sanctioned his departure after a disappointing debut campaign at Stamford Bridge, despite the winger registering 12 goal contributions across all competitions.
Unai Emery explains why Garnacho is struggling
There is a clear reason why Garnacho has struggled to break into the Villa side, with Emery previously insisting that the youngster needs time to adapt to his methods.
The Spaniard explained last month that the Argentina international was behind his teammates following complications during pre-season, while also highlighting the competition for attacking places.
"Continue working. Work, work, train, work," Emery said.
"When he can have minutes to play, try to play well. He is progressing, but we have players in front of him now."
The Villa boss also pointed towards the impressive form of other attacking options, including George and Alysson, as reasons why Garnacho has found opportunities limited.
That leaves Chelsea in a frustrating position. The 22-year-old has no long-term future at Stamford Bridge, but if he cannot earn Emery's trust, the Blues could be forced to revisit his situation all over again next summer.
Garnacho still has time to turn things around, but his current lack of minutes is making a permanent exit far less straightforward than Chelsea would have hoped.
Add us as a preferred source on Google