Chelsea are considering a surprise move for Cardiff winger Josh Murphy, according to reports in England.

It seems the main reason behind the move would be to increase the quota of English players in the squad ahead of next season.

The departure of Gary Cahill and the likely exit of Danny Drinkwater means the Blues are struggling for numbers in terms of homegrown talent.

However, with the likes of Mason Mount, Reece James, Fikayo Tomori and Tammy Abraham all returning from loan spells in the summer, a move for Murphy doesn’t appear to be something that is needed.

The 24-year-old has scored just three goals and contributed one assist in 28 Premier League games this season, but he has reportedly come to the attention of the club’s scouts.

Murphy would be available relatively cheaply and would come in to fill up a gap in the squad, but other than that, it is hard to find a reason why there would be interest.

Even if Chelsea were keen, the club’s two-window transfer ban would have to be lifted before a move could take place.