Chelsea could well receive a cash boost worth around £24million ahead of the summer transfer window, should Fikayo Tomori complete a permanent move to AC Milan.
The 23-year-old has impressed during his loan spell with the rejuvenated Italian giants.
As Milan continue to sit second in the Serie A standings behind city rivals Inter Milan, the centre-back has played nine games so far, helping the Rossoneri to keep three clean sheets.
Having progressed through the academy system at Stamford Bridge, Tomori continued his development on loan with Brighton, Hull City and Derby County.
He returned to Chelsea and featured 23 times across all competitions last season, but subsequently found himself out of favour under former manager Frank Lampard - prompting a January move to Italy.
Club officials at Milan have already expressed their desire to keep Tomori on a permanent basis.
Indeed, they even have an option to buy the player, reported to be worth €28m - which comes in a little over £24.2m according to the current exchange rates.
Owing to a buy-out clause in his loan, Milan remain in pole position to sign Tomori during the summer window.
However, such has been his impact in the Italian capital, there will almost certainly be other potential suitors out there should the Blues decide to cash in to generate funds for their own upcoming recruitment drive.
Speaking to Sky in Italy after Tomori helped Milan to a 3-1 victory over Parma on Saturday, manager Stefano Pioli made their transfer stance perfectly clear.
He said: "My will and the technical area are clear on the satisfaction that this player has given us.
"Without detracting from our excellent defenders, he has very important characteristics of speed and contrast. Our will is to keep him, but it is clear that there are other factors at play."
When pressed about the Tomori buy-out clause last month, former Milan defender and current club official Franco Baresi said: "We will do everything possible to sign him on a permanent deal.
"Two months are remaining until the end of the season and it's not only up to Milan.
"Tomori is imposing himself with talent and determination. He has shown no fear when playing in a new league. He can potentially become a great champion. I hope he lives up to expectations."
