Chelsea are considering recalling Trevoh Chalobah from his loan spell at Crystal Palace, football.london understands.

A decision on whether to bring the 25-year-old defender back to Stamford Bridge this month has not yet been made but is one that is under strong consideration from the Blues' hierarchy. Chalobah is currently halfway through a season-long loan at Selhurst Park with the Cobham graduate playing 14 times for the Eagles in all competitions this term.

However, an alternative option of signing someone new is also being discussed internally at Stamford Bridge. With Wesley Fofana potentially missing the season with a serious hamstring injury, and Benoit Badiashile out until at least next month with a similar problem, Chelsea have been left very short of options in the centre-back department.

READ MORE: Chelsea's hunt for a new striker, defender injury crisis and more January transfer window news

READ MORE: Chelsea handed fresh penalty verdict as controversial Pedro Neto VAR decision takes another twist

As it stands, Enzo Maresca has Levi Colwill, Tosin Adarabioyo, Axel Disasi and Josh Acheampong as options in the middle of defence. Acheampong, who made his full Premier League debut on Saturday, and Colwill started together away at Crystal Palace, while Disasi and Tosin were both dropped from the team after starting in the defeat to Ipswich Town five days prior.

Acheampong was singled out for praise after the game by Maresca, who was left massively impressed with what he witnessed from the 18-year-old on his first Premier League start. Speaking to reporters at Selhurst Park, Maresca said: "All the players, for me, were good today but if I had to decide for one, I think for sure, Josh was our best player because of his age, it was his first game.

"Josh, for me, can be a top player for this club but he needs the right path, the right moment; for young players, you need to decide which moment. We decided today because we think he showed that he was ready.

"Today, I think he showed how good he is. Because of his age, he needs to slow down, work hard and take his next chance."

Acheampong signed a contract extension with the Blues towards the end of last year following months filled with speculation over his future. Given his age and lack of experience, though, it would make sense for the club to not apply too much pressure on his shoulders.

The same can be said about Aaron Anselmino, who was recalled from his loan spell with Boca Juniors last week. The 19-year-old Argentine is now with the Chelsea first-team squad but football.london understands the club are keen to not put too much pressure on him while he adapts to a new country and lifestyle at such a young age.