Napoli will make an attempt to sign Chelsea midfielder Billy Gilmour on loan with an option to buy, according to Calciomercato.it.

The Italian website reports that the Serie A side have been keeping an eye on the 19-year-old since he broke through into the first team last season and “intermediaries are at work” to ascertain whether a deal can be made for January.

Napoli want a purchase clause included in any loan deal but Chelsea are believed to be reluctant to let him go, as they know he has massive potential. However, there is also talk of a buyback option which could allow the midfielder to develop in Italy before perhaps returning to Stamford Bridge in the future.

It would be a huge surprise if manager Frank Lampard decided to let the Scottish Under 21 international leave in January, so it’s wise to take this story with a large pinch of salt.