David Zappacosta could see his loan stint with Roma end prematurely following a serious knee injury, which may lead the Italy international to return to Chelsea.
The 27-year-old joined Roma in the summer on an initial six-month loan deal, with an option to extend the agreement, but his future is now uncertain.
Sky Sports report that Roma fear that Zappacosta has sustained anterior cruciate ligament damage in training which, if so, would see the full-back sidelined for the remainder of his contract with the Serie A side.
So far, his only appearance in the Italian capital came off the bench in a 3-3 draw with Genoa on the opening day, playing just 12 minutes of Serie A football, he then suffered a calf injury in the warm-up ahead of the derby against Lazio.
He made just four Premier League appearances for the Blues under Maurizio Sarri last term, although he featured on ten occasions during the club's Europa League triumph.
Should it turn out to be the case, it is likely that the defender will return to Stamford Bridge in order to undergo treatment and begin rehabilitation with the aim of returning as soon as possible.
