Chelsea FC Completes Loan Deal for Zakaria Bakkali to Swiss Club Servette FC
New loan move for Chelsea's Zakaria Bakkali
Chelsea FC have loaned Belgian winger Zakaria Bakkali to Swiss club Servette FC until the end of the season.
The 25-year-old has struggled to make an impact at Stamford Bridge since joining from PSV Eindhoven in 2015, and has spent time on loan at Valencia, Deportivo La Coruna, Anderlecht, and Royal Antwerp in recent seasons.
Bakkali has made just one appearance for Chelsea's first team, in the EFL Cup in 2015, and has been deemed surplus to requirements by manager Thomas Tuchel.
Servette FC are currently ninth in the Swiss Super League, and will be hoping that Bakkali can help them improve their form in the second half of the season.
Chelsea's loan policy
Chelsea have a long history of loaning out their young players, and Bakkali is just the latest in a long line of players to leave Stamford Bridge on a temporary basis.
The club's loan policy has been criticised by some, who argue that it prevents young players from getting the experience they need to succeed at Chelsea.
However, Chelsea argue that their loan policy is essential for developing young players and giving them the opportunity to play regular football.
Bakkali's career
Bakkali began his career at Standard Liege, and made his debut for the club's first team at the age of 16.
He quickly established himself as one of the most promising young players in Europe, and was signed by PSV Eindhoven in 2013.
Bakkali spent two seasons at PSV, winning the Eredivisie title in 2015, before joining Chelsea.
He has since failed to live up to his potential at Stamford Bridge, and has been loaned out to several clubs in recent seasons.
Bakkali will be hoping to rediscover his form at Servette FC, and help the club achieve their goals for the season.
Chelsea's transfer plans
Chelsea have been active in the transfer market this summer, and have already signed several players, including Raheem Sterling, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Marc Cucurella.
The club are still looking to add to their squad before the transfer window closes, and have been linked with a move for Leicester City defender Wesley Fofana.
Chelsea are also expected to sell a number of players this summer, with Bakkali, Michy Batshuayi, and Ross Barkley all linked with moves away from Stamford Bridge.
The club's transfer plans will be shaped by their performance in the Premier League this season, and they will be hoping to challenge for the title under new manager Thomas Tuchel.
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