Antonio Conte was dealt a cruel blow ahead of his game against Liverpool this weekend after it was revealed that club captain John Terry would miss the trip after picking up an injury in a recent game.
The manager, who made two big money signings on deadline day to improve his defense is already frustrated with his lack of options at the back and he will be under more pressure as his star defender is now out of the game for a decent amount of time.
Though he has back up in David Luiz, Conte is not convinced with right back Branislav Ivanovic and wants to let him leave the club as early as January.
It was also reported that the Conte is ready to make a move for Manchester Untied outcast Matteo Darmian to improve his options at the back.
However, the Chelsea manager was dealt a huge blow today after it was revealed that Jose Mourinho, the new manager at Old Trafford will block any move from Chelsea for the Italian international.
The former Torino full-back moved to Manchester United under Louis van Gaal and soon established himself as the first choice right back making 39-appearance in all competitions.
However, injuries along with loss of form saw him fall out of favor under the new manager who has preferred Antonio Valencia in the right back spot this season. Darmian is yet to play a minute of the new season and is apparently up for sale in January.
Reports suggested that Conte was ready to give the 26-year old a chance to revive his career at the Stamford Bridge but it is now understood that the Old Trafford manager sees his former club as direct title rivals in the Premier League race, and is not ready to do any business with the Blues.
This will come as a blow for Conte who was desperate for Darmian.
The Italian international has already worked under the Chelsea boss and knows the ins and outs of his game. He would have been a great addition to the squad at Chelsea as he will add experience and also some strength to their back four.
However, Mourinho has made a smart move to not let Conte get his hands on Darmian.
The likes of Juventus and Napoli are also interested in his signature and it is understood that Mourinho is ready to listen to offers from the Italian outfit but will not be doing any business with the Blues across the country.
The Portuguese genius may be a bit stubborn at times but this decision of keeping the Italian duo away from a reunion will help not only his side but also other sides competing for the title in the Premier League.
Do you think Mourinho should let Darmian join Chelsea this January?