Chelsea recall David Datro Fofana, Sevilla switch in doubt?

During the summer transfer window, Fofana was one of the first players to depart on a temporary basis with Mauricio Pochettino preferring other options.

Having impressed at Molde in Norway, there was hope that the Ivorian could enjoy a productive campaign in the Bundesliga and Champions League.

While that occurred through 10 starts and six substitute outings in those particular competitions, the 21-year-old was able to contribute just two goals.

His solitary strike in Germany's top flight came in the final match before the winter break, yet Chelsea have taken the opportunity to recall him from his stint in the capital.

The West Londoners announced on Wednesday afternoon that Fofana had been recalled, without any indication of their future plans for a player that has been contracted to the club for just over 12 months.

Over the past week, it has been widely reported that Sevilla have been discussing taking over the terms of the loan agreement with their Chelsea counterparts.

Furthermore, there has been the suggestion that Fofana is in favour of the switch to Spain to represent a club that are looking to avoid a relegation battle in La Liga.

However, according to Nizaar Kinsella of the Evening Standard, there is no certainty that the temporary transfer will go through.

Priority is seemingly being given to pushing through Ian Maatsen's loan move to Borussia Dortmund, that effectively taking the spot of Fofana on Chelsea's loan outgoings.

As per FIFA regulations, Chelsea can only facilitate seven such departures to foreign clubs, and their allocation is currently full with 20 days of the transfer window remaining.

Unless Chelsea bring a premature end to one of the other six arrangements, Fofana will either remain at Chelsea for the second half of the season or be loaned to another English team.

With Nicolas Jackson away on international duty with Senegal and Chelsea yet to make any concrete moves for a new striker in the transfer market, both options are on the table.