As Antonio Conte continues to fine-tune his Chelsea side, Branislav Ivanovic’s future is looking increasingly uncertain.
The Serbian has been at Stamford Bridge for eight years, but amid the new manager’s reshuffle at the back, he could find himself earning less and less game time.
Cesar Azpilicueta has been playing at left-back to accommodate Ivanovic, but the Sun report that Conte wants to move him back into his natural position on the other side.
The 32-year-old only has a year left on his current contract, which raises the prospect of him leaving in January.
The return of David Luiz has only served to further push him out of contention, as Ivanovic will have even fewer chances in the centre of the defence.
Chelsea fans will no doubt be sorry to see him go if he does leave, as he has enjoyed a hugely successful career at the club, winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup along the way.
Following some of his shakier performances last season, however, it seems Ivanovic’s time in West London is coming to a natural end, and Conte just won’t tolerate mediocrity.
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