Chelsea Under-21 midfielder Leo Castledine is expected to leave the club on a permanent transfer this summer.
Castledine, who impressed on loan at League One side Shrewsbury Town this season before a back injury ended his campaign prematurely in February, is ready to join a new side on a permanent basis in a bid to get regular first-team football.
The highly-rated England Under-19 international still has one year left on his current deal with the option for another 12 months.
But with Chelsea having many midfielders to choose from, Castledine has decided he would be better off going elsewhere for the sake of his career, even though he still loves being at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea also value Castledine highly but are prepared to listen to offers, which will include a sell-on clause. Championship and League One clubs are already showing an interest.
A loan has not been completely ruled out, but is regarded as unlikely because Castledine is wary of it becoming a regular occurrence. Chelsea would also want the player to sign a new contract before sending him away for another campaign.
The Athletic revealed in February that Castledine had suffered a minor stress fracture in his lower back, but he has already returned to training and will be ready to play a full part in pre-season.
Castledine made his senior debut for Chelsea last season as a substitute in their 6-1 win over Middlesbrough at Stamford Bridge in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg. The 20-year-old played 26 times for Shrewsbury before his injury, including 18 league starts.
(Photo: Dan Istitene/Getty Images)