Chelsea are reportedly reconsidering their stance on Saul Niguez with the Blues currently unable to negotiate new transfers.
Roman Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK government this week for what they called "decade" long links to Vladimir Putin, the person leading Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
The billionaire oligarch has always denied these links but sanctions were implemented nonetheless, restricting Chelsea's ability to trade on any level.
It leaves the club unable to sell matchday tickets or merchandise, as well as halting any transfer or contract negotiations that were in the offing at Stamford Bridge.
The futures of Antonio Rudiger, Cesar Azpilicueta and Andreas Christensen have been thrown into further doubt as a result of the decision, with the trio set to become free agents in the summer.
But in terms of strengthening in the summer, it leaves the likes of director Marina Granovskaia scratching their heads over potential transfer plans.
One name currently being discussed is Saul Niguez, according to The Mirror.
The Spaniard was signed on loan from Atletico Madrid in the summer of 2021 along with a £29.3 million option to buy at the end of the campaign.
With the 27-year-old largely struggling since his arrival in west London, Chelsea were reported to be set on not taking up the option.
However, given recent sanctions, every option is being explored. Given the nature of the deal, the Blues are eager to find out whether it would count as a new transfer - similar to how the club were able to complete a permanent transfer for the on-loan Mateo Kovacic despite being under a transfer ban in 2019.
Chelsea have until May 30 to inform Atletico of their final decision.
