Chelsea are reportedly weighing up whether to sign a new left-back before the end of the January transfer window.
The Blues are currently well stocked for that position which is currently held by Levi Colwill, who has been used there for much of the campaign.
Ben Chilwell will also come back into contention in the coming weeks, providing that he is able to prove his fitness after a long-term hamstring injury.
With Malo Gusto also capable of deputising when required, there is theoretically no rush, but Chelsea are about to lose another option for that role.
Borussia Dortmund have been in negotiations with Chelsea for a number of days regarding the signing of Ian Maatsen, who is keen to earn regular football.
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Maatsen has only made three starts and 12 substitute outings for Chelsea this campaign, many of his appearances coming in an attacking position rather than at full-back.
The latest report has indicated that the Netherlands Under-21 international will sign for Dortmund on loan for the remainder of the season, albeit on the back of another contract extension.
That gives both the club and player the chance to reassess the situation in the summer, yet it frees up a space in Mauricio Pochettino's senior ranks in the short term.
According to the Evening Standard, the Argentine is yet to move away from the idea that another left-back should be signed in Maatsen's place.
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Chelsea also have Marc Cucurella to eventually come back into the fold, but that may not be until March after he recently underwent ankle surgery.
Pochettino insisted at a press conference on Monday that he will be able to add players to his squad without Chelsea having to generate extra funds.
Nevertheless, a balance will have to be found with Pochettino also said to want another midfielder and striker, as well as more physically-imposing players given Chelsea's lack of height.
With Chilwell not ready to make his return, either Colwill or Gusto will feature at left-back when Chelsea square off against Middlesbrough in the first leg of their EFL Cup semi-final on Tuesday night.
Darren Plant
