Lesley Ugochukwu is likely to be unavailable until the middle of February, the Evening Standard reports.
The Frenchman sustained a hamstring injury in November and suffered a relapse against Wolves on December 24.
Ugochukwu's injury means that a potential loan move for Andrey Santos is now under threat. The Brazilian was recalled from his Nottingham Forest loan earlier this month with an expectation he'll join another club where he'll get more playing time.
After Ugochukwu's injury, Chelsea are contemplating keeping Santos at the club as they're worried about lack of available midfielders.
Crystal Palace and several Championship clubs are interested in signing the one-time Brazil international on loan but both he and the club are taking time to make a final decision.
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