Five destinations for out-of-favour Chelsea forward Mohamed Salah
Egypt international Mohamed Salah has struggled to settle at Stamford Bridge since his £11m arrival at Chelsea last January, and has made just five appearances across all competitions this campaign.
Blues boss Jose Mourinho is reportedly keen for the 22-year-old attacker to gain first-team experience elsewhere in the Premier League, a move which may save his future in west London.
A host of top tier clubs are expected to line up for the rapid winger’s signature, so Coral considers Salah’s best options.
Aston Villa
The Villans’ current Premier League tally of seven goals should mean under-fire coach Paul Lambert (13/5 to see his side relegated) takes a long, hard look at his attacking options in January.
Christian Benteke is still Villa’s best bet up front, but desperately needs sleeker service. Lambert has Joe Cole and Jack Grealish at his disposal already, and the addition of fleet-footed ex-Basel wingman Salah could make for a tantalising trio behind the brilliant Belgian.
Everton
The Toffees already have Chelsea starlet Christian Atsu tied to a temporary deal, but the young Ghanaian has failed to impress. The Blues are reported to be bemused the tricky 21-year-old’s lack of playing time and said to be considering pulling the plug on his stint at Goodison Park.
This could open the door for a switch with Salah, who would certainly add an extra dimension to the Toffees’ attack. Everton, 15/8 for a top six finish, may have already burned their bridges after Atsu, though, despite their impressive recent record of nurturing loanees.
Perhaps this could leave Merseyside rivals Liverpool in the frame. The Reds have done a similar deal with the Blues for Victor Moses before, and could certainly use extra spark in attack.
Sunderland
The Black Cats (11/4 to be relegated) recently became the first team to shut out Chelsea this season. It appears Gus Poyet finally has his men organised at the back, but a little added flair and thrill up front would be the cherry on top.
Plucky Poyet has continued to lament the loss of last season’s loan star Fabio Borini, and although it is unlikely Salah could replace those goals, he should be able to craft chances for in-form forward Steven Fletcher.
QPR
Harry Redknapp’s Hoops require a pacy player who can provide a genuine threat to opposition defences, and feed top marksman Charlie Austin. Salah would certainly fit this mould, and a relegation battle could be the making of the youngster.
With arguably a much higher ceiling than QPR’s current options, the exciting Egyptian could have fans out of their seats in anticipation for the first time since Loic Remy’s departure.
West Ham United
Sam Allardyce has already spoken of tightened purse strings at Upton Park, following a decadent summer splurge. Loan deals could still be very much on the cards, however.
With the Hammers flying high, it may be difficult for Salah to push for a starting spot but, by the time January rolls around, the Upton Park outfit may be in need of a boost. The flying Egyptian’s versatility could see him provide cover and competition at the tip of a diamond, or on either wing. West Ham are 9/1 for a top six finish.