Chelsea are reportedly preparing to send 21-year-old centre-back Tomas Kalas on loan to Middlesbrough for the remainder of the season.

The Czech Republic international is highly rated at Stamford Bridge, but has thus far struggled to make the breakthrough in the Premier League and spent the first half of this season on loan at German side FC Koln.

According to the Northern Echo, the Blues believe that Kalas's development would be best served in England and have earmarked Boro as the perfect club.

Chelsea have three players on loan at the Riverside this season, with Kenneth Omeruo, Patrick Bamford and Jamal Blackman all currently representing the Championship outfit.